bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Epiphytic Chlorophyll d‐containing Cyanobacterium Isolated from a Mangrove‐associated Red Alga
Authors: Larkum Anthony W. D. , Chen Min , Li Yaqiong , Schliep Martin , Trampe Erik , West John , Salih Anya , Kühl Michael
Published: September 2012

A new habitat and a new chlorophyll (Chl) d‐containing cyanobacterium belonging to the genus Acaryochloris are reported in this study. Hyperspectral microscopy showed the presence of Chl d‐containing microorganisms in epiphytic biofilms on a red alga (Gelidium caulacantheum) colonizing the pneumato‐phores of a temperate mangrove (Avicennia marina). The presence of Chl d was further proven by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)‐based pigment analysis and by confocal imaging of cultured cells. Enrichment of mangrove biofilm samples under near‐infrared radiation (NIR) yielded the new Acaryochloris sp. MPGRS1, which was closely related in terms of 16S rRNA gene sequence to an isolate from the hypertrophic Salton Sea, USA. The new isolate used Chl d as its major photopigment; Chl d and Chl a contents were ~98% and 1%–2% of total cellular chlorophyll, respectively. These findings expand the variety of ecological niches known to harbor Chl d‐containing cyanobacteria and support our working hypothesis that such oxyphototrophs may be ubiquitous in habitats depleted of visible light, but with sufficient NIR exposure.
Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial of Bilayer Ceramic and Metal‐Ceramic Crown Performance
Authors: Esquivel‐Upshaw Josephine , Rose William , Oliveira Erica , Yang Mark , Clark Arthur E. , Anusavice Kenneth
Published: September 2012

Purpose: Analyzing the clinical performance of restorative materials is important, as there is an expectation that these materials and procedures will restore teeth and do no harm. The objective of this research study was to characterize the clinical performance of metal‐ceramic crowns, core ceramic crowns, and core ceramic/veneer ceramic crowns based on 11 clinical criteria.

Materials and Methods: An IRB‐approved, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted as a single‐blind pilot study. The following three types of full crowns were fabricated: (1) metal‐ceramic crown (MC) made from a Pd‐Au‐Ag‐Sn‐In alloy (Argedent 62) and a glass‐ceramic veneer (IPS d.SIGN veneer); (2) non‐veneered (glazed) lithium disilicate glass‐ceramic crown (LDC) (IPS e.max Press core and e.max Ceram Glaze); and (3) veneered lithia disilicate glass‐ceramic crown (LDC/V) with glass‐ceramic veneer (IPS Empress 2 core and IPS Eris). Single‐unit crowns were randomly assigned. Patients were recalled for each of 3 years and were evaluated by two calibrated clinicians. Thirty‐six crowns were placed in 31 patients. A total of 12 crowns of each of the three crown types were studied. Eleven criteria were evaluated: tissue health, marginal integrity, secondary caries, proximal contact, anatomic contour, occlusion, surface texture, cracks/chips (fractures), color match, tooth sensitivity, and wear (of crowns and opposing enamel). Numerical rankings ranged from 1 to 4, with 4 being excellent, and 1 indicating a need for immediate replacement. Statistical analysis of the numerical rankings was performed using a Fisher's exact test.

Results: There was no statistically significant difference between performance of the core ceramic crowns and the two veneered crowns at year 1 and year 2 (p > 0.05). All crowns were rated either as excellent or good for each of the clinical criteria; however, between years 2 and 3, gradual roughening of the occlusal surface occurred in some of the ceramic‐ceramic crowns, possibly caused by dissolution and wear of the glaze. Statistically significant differences in surface texture (p= 0.0013) and crown wear (p= 0.0078) were found at year 3 between the metal‐ceramic crowns and the lithium‐disilicate‐based crowns.

Conclusion: Based on the 11 criteria, the clinical performance of ceramic‐ceramic crowns was comparable to that of the metal‐ceramic crowns after 2 years; however, gradual roughening occurred between years 2 and 3, which resulted in differences in surface texture and wear.
AN ADAPTIVE MULTIVARIATE APPROACH TO TIME SERIES FORECASTING
Authors: Bretschneider Stuart I. , Carbone Robert , Longini Richard L.
Published: September 2012

In recent years, time series analysts have shifted their interest from univariate to multivariate forecasting approaches. Among them, the Box‐Jenkins transfer function process and the state space method have received the most attention. This paper presents a simplified approach that embodies some desirable features of existing methods. It stresses empirical analysis, has a unified modeling structure, is easily applicable, and is adaptive to changes without necessitating prior information on the evolution of a system under study. The core of the method relies on the Carbone‐Longini adaptive estimation procedure (AEP). Results of a comparative study based on the well‐known Lydia E. Pinkham data and the Box‐Jenkins sales/leading indicator data illustrate the merits of multivariate AEP in improving forecasting accuracy while simplifying the analysis process.

Subject Area: Forecasting.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS AND THE ADDITIVE VALUE FUNCTION*
Authors: Kamenetzky Ricardo D.
Published: September 2012

The relationship between the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), a multiple‐criteria decision method based on the properties of the eigenvalues of positive reciprocal matrices, and the additive value function is studied. The AHP is compared with the standard method of building an additive value function. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed and a new method that uses elements of both is proposed. The proposed method relies on the AHP for building the unidimensional value functions and incorporates the systematic use of pairwise comparisons into the standard method of estimating the weights of the additive value function.

Subject Area: Decision Processes.
The New Stigma of Relocated Public Housing Residents: Challenges to Social Identity in Mixed–Income Developments
Authors: McCormick Naomi J. , Joseph Mark L. , Chaskin Robert J.
Published: September 2012

Public housing residents have long experienced stigma as members of an urban “underclass.” One policy response is the creation of mixed–income developments; by deconcentrating poverty and integrating residents into communities in which their residences are indistinguishable from neighbors, such efforts might reduce stigma associated with residency in traditional public housing. Through in–depth interviews with 35 relocated public housing residents and 184 field observations at three mixed–income developments in Chicago, we find this is not the case. Stigma associated with living in public housing is ameliorated, yet residents report that their experience of stigma has intensified in other ways. The negative response of higher–income residents, along with stringent screening and rule enforcement, amplifies the sense of difference many residents feel in these contexts. We demonstrate that this new form of stigma has generated a range of coping responses as relocated public housing residents seek to maintain eligibility while buttressing their social identity.
“We Don't Live Outside, We Live in Here”: Neighborhood and Residential Mobility Decisions among Low–Income Families
Authors: Rosenblatt Peter , DeLuca Stefanie
Published: September 2012

Over 20 years of scholarship suggests that living in America's poorest and most dangerous communities diminishes the life course development of children and adults. In the 1990s, the dire conditions of some of these neighborhoods, especially those with large public housing developments, prompted significant policy responses. In addition to the demolition and redevelopment of some of the projects, the federal government launched an experiment to help families leave poor neighborhoods through an assisted housing voucher program called Moving to Opportunity (MTO). While families who moved through this program initially relocated to census tracts with poverty rates almost four times lower than their original projects, many returned to communities of moderate to high poverty. Why? We use mixed methods to explore the patterns and the decision–making processes behind moves among MTO families. Focusing on the Baltimore MTO site, we find that traditional theories for residential choice did not fully explain these outcomes. While limited access to public transportation, housing quality problems, and landlords made it hard for families to move to, or stay in, low–poverty neighborhoods, there were also more striking explanations for their residential trajectories. Many families valued the low–poverty neighborhoods they were originally able to access with their vouchers, but when faced with the need to move again, they often sacrificed neighborhood quality for dwelling quality in order to accommodate changing family needs. Having lived in high–poverty neighborhoods most of their lives, they developed a number of coping strategies and beliefs that made them confident they could handle such a consequential trade–off and protect themselves and their children from the dangers of poorer areas.
Insider Trading and Corporate Information Transparency
Authors: Gu Feng , Li John Q.
Published: September 2012

Our study examines the relation between insider trading and corporate information transparency. We find a negative relation between firms’ information transparency and the economic significance of insider trading, including the amount of insider purchase and sale and the profitability of insider transactions. We also find a negative relation between information transparency and stock price reaction to news of insider trading, which suggests that increases in information transparency preempt insiders’ private information. Our study provides evidence consistent with firms’ transparency‐enhancing activities decreasing information asymmetry between insiders and investors by revealing insiders’ private information to investors in a timely manner.
The Relationship Between Insurance and Economic Development: 85 Empirical Papers for a Review of the Literature
Authors: Outreville J. François
Published: September 2012

The objective of this article is to propose a review of 85 empirical papers examining the relationships between insurance and economic development, that is, the insurance‐growth nexus. When looking at the economic importance of the insurance sector, most papers in the past have looked at the demand side (the level of economic development is an explanatory variable among other factors that affect the demand for insurance). Because the role of the insurance sector and its contribution to development is at the agenda of international organizations and because the importance of the relationship between financial development and economic growth has been well recognized and emphasized in the field of economic development, more recent papers have examined the causality links between insurance and economic development and the role of insurance as a significant determinant in the process of economic growth.
Low Recurrence Rate in Treating Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia with Triple Freeze‐Thaw Cycles
Authors: QURESHI MUHAMMAD Y. , RATNASAMY CHRISTOPHER , SOKOLOSKI MARY , YOUNG MING‐LON
Published: September 2012

Background

Cryoablation is an alternative to radiofrequency ablation in treating atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT). However, its long‐term effectiveness is in question when compared to radiofrequency ablation. We reviewed the results of cryoablation in children with AVNRT at our institute.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single‐center chart review of consecutive patients ≤18 years of age with AVNRT who underwent cryoablation between January 2007 and August 2009. During cryoablation, a 6‐mm‐tip cryocatheter was used with temperature set to −80°C. Test lesions were performed at the presumed slow pathway location based on combined anatomic and electrophysiologic approach. If successful, ablation was then continued with triple freeze‐thaw cycles (FTC) of 4 minutes each.

Results

A total of 53 patients (age range: 6.1–18.4 years, mean: 13.6 years, median: 13.2 years) underwent slow pathway modification with cryoablation. Acute success was achieved in 51 (96.2%) cases. Transient atrioventricular block was seen in 19 cases. The block occurred during FTC in eight patients (15%). The number of FTC was three in 47 (92.2%) patients. Less than three FTC were given in two patients due to transient heart block and four FTC were given in two patients with suspected catheter movement. Procedure duration was 177 ± 56 minutes; fluoroscopic time was 14 ± 11 minutes. Mean follow‐up was 30.7 ± 10 (range 12–52, median 31) months. Recurrence of supraventricular tachycardia was seen in only one (1.96%) patient.

Conclusions

Triple FTC cryoablation lesions resulted in a low recurrence rate comparable to RF ablation in treating AVNRT without increased complications.
Significant Reduction of Atrial Defibrillation Threshold and Inducibility by Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: HWANG EUI‐SEOCK , NAM GI BYUNG , JOUNG BOYOUNG , PARK JUNBEOM , LEE JIHEI SARA , SHIM JAEMIN , UHM JAE‐SUN , LEE MOON HYOUNG , PAK HUI‐NAM
Published: September 2012

Background:

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) has antiarrhythmic effects by multiple mechanisms. We hypothesized that RFCA curtails atrial defibrillation threshold (A‐DFT) and postablation induction pacing cycle length (iPCL), making critical mass reduction one potential mechanism by which antiarrhythmic effect is achieved.

Methods:

We included 289 patients with AF (male 77.9%, 55.7 ± 10.8 years old; 197 paroxysmal AF: 92 persistent AF) who underwent RFCA. A‐DFT (serial internal cardioversion 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 J) and iPCL (serial 10 mA 10‐second atrial pacing with pacing cycle length 250, 200, 190, 180, 170, 160, and 150 ms) were evaluated before and after RFCA.

Results:

(1) RFCA of AF reduced the A‐DFT from 6.7 ± 3.7 J to 3.0 ± 3.0 J (P < 0.001). (2) AF ablation reduced AF inducibility from 95.4% before the procedure to 56.3% after the procedure (P < 0.001), and the iPCL from 194.8 ± 32.6 to 160.9 ± 26.2 ms (P < 0.001). (3) In patients who underwent a greater number of ablation lines, the post‐RFCA A‐DFT (P < 0.001) was lower, and %ΔA‐DFT (P = 0.003) and proportion of atrial tachycardia (P = 0.022) were higher than those with a lower number of ablation lines.

Conclusion:

AF ablation significantly reduced A‐DFT, AF inducibility, and iPCL, and the degree of their reduction was related to the number of ablation lines. (PACE 2012;35:1428–1435)
Risk Stratification in Wolff‐Parkinson‐White Syndrome: The Correlation Between Noninvasive and Invasive Testing in Pediatric Patients
Authors: WACKEL PHILIP , IRVING CLAIRE , WEBBER STEVEN , BEERMAN LEE , ARORA GAURAV
Published: September 2012

Background:

In Wolff‐Parkinson‐White (WPW) syndrome, rapid antegrade conduction of atrial tachyarrhythmias can result in ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. Antegrade conduction can be assessed through noninvasive testing or invasive electrophysiology study (EPS). We aimed to determine the correlation between noninvasive testing and EPS in a pediatric WPW population.

Methods:

All WPW patients <21 years who underwent EPS over a 10‐year period were identified. Noninvasive testing reviewed included electrocardiogram, Holter, and exercise stress test (EST). Patients were classified as low‐risk if preexcitation was lost during any test. EPS data reviewed included antegrade conduction during atrial pacing and atrial fibrillation. Conduction through the accessory pathway (AP) to a cycle length ≤250 ms was considered rapid, otherwise patients were nonrapid. Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of noninvasive testing to correctly identify nonrapid conduction was calculated.

Results:

There were 135 EPS. Twenty‐four patients (18%) were classified low‐risk noninvasively. Two of the 24 (8%) had rapid conduction at baseline EPS. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of low‐risk noninvasive testing to predict nonrapid conduction was 22%, 94%, 92%, and 31%, respectively. Sixteen of the 24 had low‐risk EST and none had rapid conduction at baseline EPS. The specificity and PPV of low‐risk EST were 100%.

Conclusion:

Loss of preexcitation during noninvasive testing had high specificity and PPV for nonrapid antegrade conduction during baseline EPS. Abrupt loss of preexcitation during EST was a highly reliable noninvasive marker of nonrapid AP conduction at baseline in our pediatric WPW patients. (PACE 2012;35:1451–1457)
Prevalence of Acute Lung Injury Among Medical Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Goyal Munish , Houseman Daniel , Johnson Nicholas J. , Christie Jason , Mikkelsen Mark E. , Gaieski David F.
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1011–1018 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Background:  Acute lung injury (ALI) affects an estimated 190,000 persons per year in U.S. intensive care units (ICUs), but little is known about its prevalence in the emergency department (ED).

Objectives:  The objective was to describe the prevalence of ALI among mechanically ventilated adult nontrauma patients in the ED. The hypothesis was that the prevalence of ALI in adult ED patients would be low.

Methods:  This was a retrospective cohort study of admitted nontrauma patients presenting to an academic ED. Two trained investigators abstracted data from patient records using a standardized form. The use of mechanical ventilation in the ED was identified in two phases. First, all ED patients were screened for the current procedural terminology (CPT) code for endotracheal intubation (CPT 31500) from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2006. Second, each patient record was reviewed to verify the use of mechanical ventilation. ALI was defined in accordance with a modified version of the American‐European Consensus Conference criteria as: 1) hypoxemia defined as PaO2/FiO2 ratio ≤300 mm Hg on all arterial blood gases (ABGs) in the ED and the first 24 hours of admission, 2) the presence of bilateral infiltrates on chest radiograph, and 3) the absence of left atrial hypertension. Data are presented in absolute numbers and percentages. Interobserver agreement was evaluated using the kappa statistic.

Results:  Of the 552 patients who received mechanical ventilation in the ED and were subsequently admitted, a total of 134 (24.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 20.8% to 28.0%) met hypoxemia criteria. Of these, 34 had evidence of left atrial hypertension, 52 did not have chest radiograph findings consistent with ALI, and two did not have a chest radiograph performed; the remaining 46 met ALI criteria. An additional two patients who died in the ED had clinical evidence of ALI. Thus, 48 of 552, or 8.7% (95% CI = 6.6% to 11.3%), met criteria for ALI. The kappa value for determination of ALI was 0.84 (95% CI = 0.54 to 1.0).

Conclusions:  The prevalence of ALI was nearly 9% in adult nontrauma patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the ED. Further study is required to determine which types of patients present to the ED with ALI, the extent to which lung protective ventilation is used, and the need for ED ventilator management algorithms.
Hand Ultrasound: A High‐fidelity Simulation of Lung Sliding
Authors: Shokoohi Hamid , Boniface Keith
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1079–1083 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Simulation training has been effectively used to integrate didactic knowledge and technical skills in emergency and critical care medicine. In this article, we introduce a novel model of simulating lung ultrasound and the features of lung sliding and pneumothorax by performing a hand ultrasound. The simulation model involves scanning the palmar aspect of the hand to create normal lung sliding in varying modes of scanning and to mimic ultrasound features of pneumothorax, including “stratosphere/barcode sign” and “lung point.” The simple, reproducible, and readily available simulation model we describe demonstrates a high‐fidelity simulation surrogate that can be used to rapidly illustrate the signs of normal and abnormal lung sliding at the bedside.
Practice Patterns in Asthma Discharge Pharmacotherapy in Pediatric Emergency Departments: A Pediatric Emergency Research Canada Study
Authors: Schuh Suzanne , Zemek Roger , Plint Amy , Black Karen J. L. , Freedman Stephen , Porter Robert , Gouin Serge , Johnson David W.
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1019–1026 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objective was to examine utilization of β2 agonists via metered dose inhalers with oral and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) at discharge in children with acute asthma.

Methods:  This was a retrospective medical record review at six pediatric emergency departments (EDs) of otherwise healthy children 2 to 17 years of age discharged with acute asthma. Data were extracted on history, disease severity, and pharmacotherapy used in the ED and at discharge. The primary outcome was the proportion of children prescribed “comprehensive therapy,” i.e., albuterol via metered dose inhaler (MDI) with oral and ICS.

Results:  The overall rate of comprehensive therapy was 382 of 654 (58%), which varied from 30% to 84% (p < 0.0001). A total of 570 of 575 children discharged on albuterol received MDIs. Although the rates of prescriptions for oral and ICS were both 80%, only 58% of patients without ICS on arrival were offered ICS at discharge. There was significant variation in the rates of all discharge pharmacotherapies across centers. The independent predictors of comprehensive therapy were daytime presentation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05 to 2.67) and “intensive stabilization” (OR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.29 to 2.67). Seventeen patients (2.6%) were prescribed antibiotics. Children were more likely to receive antibiotics if they had moderate to severe exacerbations (OR = 2.8) or received a chest radiograph (OR = 8.4).

Conclusions:  The overwhelming majority of children discharged from Canadian pediatric EDs with acute asthma are prescribed inhaled albuterol via MDIs. Although the corticosteroid use at discharge is higher than previously reported, utilization of new prescriptions for ICS may not be optimal. Children presenting during daytime to EDs receiving intensive stabilization are more likely to receive the albuterol/oral steroid/ICS combination.
Predicting Emergency Department Inpatient Admissions to Improve Same‐day Patient Flow
Authors: Peck Jordan S. , Benneyan James C. , Nightingale Deborah J. , Gaehde Stephan A.
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:1045–1054 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objectives were to evaluate three models that use information gathered during triage to predict, in real time, the number of emergency department (ED) patients who subsequently will be admitted to a hospital inpatient unit (IU) and to introduce a new methodology for implementing these predictions in the hospital setting.

Methods:  Three simple methods were compared for predicting hospital admission at ED triage: expert opinion, naïve Bayes conditional probability, and a generalized linear regression model with a logit link function (logit‐linear). Two months of data were gathered from the Boston VA Healthcare System‘s 13‐bed ED, which receives approximately 1,100 patients per month. Triage nurses were asked to estimate the likelihood that each of 767 triaged patients from that 2‐month period would be admitted after their ED treatment, by placing them into one of six categories ranging from low to high likelihood. Logit‐linear regression and naïve Bayes models also were developed using retrospective data and used to estimate admission probabilities for each patient who entered the ED within a 2‐month time frame, during triage hours (1,160 patients). Predictors considered included patient age, primary complaint, provider, designation (ED or fast track), arrival mode, and urgency level (emergency severity index assigned at triage).

Results:  Of the three methods considered, logit‐linear regression performed the best in predicting total bed need, with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of 0.887, an R2 of 0.58, an average estimation error of 0.19 beds per day, and on average roughly 3.5 hours before peak demand occurred. Significant predictors were patient age, primary complaint, bed type designation, and arrival mode (p < 0.0001 for all factors). The naïve Bayesian model had similar positive predictive value, with an AUC of 0.841 and an R2 of 0.58, but with average difference in total bed need of approximately 2.08 per day. Triage nurse expert opinion also had some predictive capability, with an R2 of 0.52 and an average difference in total bed need of 1.87 per day.

Conclusions:  Simple probability models can reasonably predict ED‐to‐IU patient volumes based on basic data gathered at triage. This predictive information could be used for improved real‐time bed management, patient flow, and discharge processes. Both statistical models were reasonably accurate, using only a minimal number of readily available independent variables.
Host utilization is mediated by movement of pre‐feeding Phthorimaea operculella larvae in the Nicotiana tabacum agroecosystem
Authors: Rivera Monique J. , Burrack Hannah J.
Published: September 2012

The distribution of insect herbivores within their hosts can be influenced by insect preference, plant characteristics, and biotic interactions such as refuge from predation. We observed significantly more Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) larvae in the lower portion of commercial tobacco plants, Nicotiana tabacum L. (Solanaceae), an occasional host, and sought to explain this distribution pattern. Phthorimaea operculella are oligophagous leaf miners of solanaceous plants, including cultivated crops. Females lay their eggs in the soil beneath N. tabacum plants rather than on the foliage, forcing newly hatched larvae to search for host tissue. We hypothesized that P. operculella larvae were establishing in the lower portion of N. tabacum plants because either they gained a performance advantage, or it was the first suitable leaf material contacted. To measure within‐plant larval performance, neonates were released in cages on leaves in the upper, middle, and lower stalk positions of the plant before and after the plant flowered. Phthorimaea operculella performed significantly better on younger plants and in the top leaves. To test larval ability to move within and between plants, we removed leaves at four heights to increase the distance newly hatched larvae must travel. Larval establishment was highest on plants with no leaves removed, but larvae were able to move an average distance of over 70 cm from release point to host leaves in plants directly above the release point and adjacent plants. Phthorimaea operculella larvae appear to utilize suboptimal N. tabacum host tissue to maximize their chances of survival.
Changes in type‐specific human papillomavirus load predict progression to cervical cancer
Authors: Depuydt Christophe E. , Criel Arnold M. , Benoy Ina H. , Arbyn Marc , Vereecken Annie J. , Bogers Johannes J.
Published: September 2012

Persistent high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is strongly associated with the development of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or cancer (CIN3+). However, HPV infection is common and usually transient. Viral load measured at a single time‐point is a poor predictor of the natural history of HPV infection. The profile of viral load evolution over time could distinguish HPV infections with carcinogenic potential from infections that regress. A case‐cohort natural history study was set‐up using a Belgian laboratory database processing more than 100,000 liquid cytology specimens annually. All cytology leftovers were submitted to real‐time PCR testing identifying E6/E7 genes of 17 HPV types, with viral load expressed as HPV copies/cell. Samples from untreated women who developed CIN3+ (n = 138) and women with transient HPV infection (n = 601) who contributed at least three viral load measurements were studied. Only single‐type HPV infections were selected. The changes in viral load over time were assessed by the linear regression slope for the productive and/or clearing phase of infection in women developing CIN3+ and women with transient infection respectively. Transient HPV infections generated similar increasing (0.21 copies/cell/day) and decreasing (−0.28 copies/cell/day) viral load slopes. In HPV infections leading to CIN3+, the viral load increased almost linearly with a slope of 0.0028 copies/cell/day. Difference in slopes between transient infections and infections leading to CIN3+ was highly significant (P < .0001). Serial type‐specific viral load measurements predict the natural history of HPV infections and could be used to triage women in HPV‐based cervical cancer screening.
The canid genome: behavioral geneticists' best friend?
Authors: Hall N. J. , Wynne C. D. L.
Published: September 2012

We review a range of studies on the genetic contribution to behavior in canid species. We begin by identifying factors that make canids a promising model in behavioral genetics and proceed to review research over the last decade that has used canids to identify genetic contributions to behavior. We first review studies that have selectively bred dogs to identify genetic contributions to behavior and then review studies that estimate heritability from populations of non‐laboratory bred dogs. We subsequently review studies that used molecular genetics to identify gene–behavior associations and note associations that have been uncovered. We then note challenges in canid behavioral genetics research that require further consideration. We finish by suggesting alternative phenotyping methods and identify areas in which canids may have as yet unexploited advantages, such as in gene–environment interaction studies where genetic factors are found to moderate the effects of environmental variables.
Predictors of breastfeeding exclusivity among migrant and Canadian‐born women: results from a multi‐centre study
Authors: Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Gagnon Anita , Van Hulst Andrea , Dougherty Geoff
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study was to examine and compare predictors of breastfeeding exclusivity among migrant and Canadian‐born women. As part of a longitudinal study, a sample of 1184 mothers were recruited from 12 hospitals in Canada and completed questionnaires at 1 and 16 weeks post‐partum that included diverse questions from the following domains: demographic, social, migration, obstetrical, breastfeeding and maternal mood. After bivariate analysis, multivariate logistic regression analysis was completed to examine and compare predictors of exclusive breastfeeding at 16 weeks post‐partum. Among migrant women, factors predictive of breastfeeding exclusivity included non‐refugee immigrant or asylum‐seeking status, residence in Toronto or Vancouver, maternal age of ≥35 years, feels most comfortable in the country of origin or nowhere and higher Gender‐related Development Index of the country of origin. Factors predictive of not exclusively breastfeeding included maternal age of <20 years, not planning to exclusively breastfeed, not making the decision to breastfeed before pregnancy and not exclusively breastfeeding at 1 week post‐partum. Among Canadian‐born women, factors predictive of a lower likelihood of breastfeeding exclusivity included not living with father of infant, infant neonatal intensive care unit admission, planned duration of exclusive breastfeeding for <6 months, not exclusively breastfeeding at 1 week post‐partum and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of ≥10. The only similar risk factor predicting a lower likelihood of breastfeeding exclusivity between migrant and Canadian‐born women was not exclusively breastfeeding at 1 week post‐partum; all other risk factors were dissimilar, suggesting that these groups might benefit from different strategies to optimise breastfeeding outcomes.
Maternal correlates of maternal child feeding practices: a systematic review
Authors: McPhie Skye , Skouteris Helen , Daniels Lynne , Jansen Elena
Published: September 2012

Establishing healthy eating habits early in life is one important strategy to combat childhood obesity. Given that early maternal child feeding practices have been linked to child food intake and weight, identifying the maternal correlates of maternal child feeding practices is important in order to understand the determinants of childhood obesity; this was the overall aim of the current review. Academic databases were searched for studies examining the relationship between maternal child feeding practices and parenting, personal characteristics and psychopathology of mothers with preschoolers. Papers were limited to those published in English, between January 2000 and June 2012. Only studies with mothers of normally developing children between the ages of 2 and 6 years were included. There were no restrictions regarding the inclusion of maternal nationality or socioeconomic status (SES). Seventeen eligible studies were sourced. Information on the aim, sample, measures and findings of these was summarised into tables. The findings of this review support a relationship between maternal controlling parenting, general and eating psychopathology, and SES and maternal child feeding practices. The main methodological issues of the studies reviewed included inconsistency in measures of maternal variables across studies and cross‐sectional designs. We conclude that the maternal correlates associated with maternal child feeding practices are complex, and the pathways by which maternal correlates impact these feeding practices require further investigation.
Chronic leg ulcers as a rare cause for the first diagnosis of epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica
Authors: Bafaraj Mazin G , Cesko Elvir , Weindorf Maren , Dissemond Joachim
Published: September 2012

Chronic leg ulcers occur most frequently in the elderly population as a result of an underlying vascular disease especially chronic venous insufficiency. But it also occurs less commonly in younger people due to other aetiologies, for example, infections, vasculitis, neoplasia or genetic diseases. The following case report presents chronic leg ulcers as a rare cause for the first diagnosis of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. We report about a 21‐year‐old man with painful chronic leg ulcers resistant to different wound treatments for 4 months. After exclusion of the more common vascular aetiologies and reviewing the patient's family history, we considered an epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica which could be confirmed by genetic analyses. We treated the patient with debridement, modified negative pressure therapy with non‐adhesive foil and skin grafting. The chronic leg ulcers healed completely. This case report demonstrates that the family history and genetic diseases should be considered as rare causes for therapy‐refractory chronic leg ulcers, especially in young patients.
Burden of Stroke in Cambodia
Authors: Loo Keat Wei , Gan Siew Hua
Published: September 2012

In Cambodia, stroke is not ranked among the top 10 leading causes of death, but infectious disease are among the top three leading causes of death. This finding could be attributed to a lack of awareness among Cambodians of the signs and symptoms of stroke or to poor reporting, incomplete data, lack of neurologists and neurosurgeons, or low accessibility to the hospitals. The only study of stroke in Cambodia is the Prevalence of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors in Cambodia survey, which identified several stroke-related risk factors in the population. Tobacco chewing or smoking is the main risk factor for stroke in Cambodia. Traditional therapies, such as oyt pleung (moxibustion) and jup (cupping), are widely practiced for stroke rehabilitation. In Cambodia, there are few neurologists and few important equipment, such as magnetic resonance imaging machines and computed tomography scanners. The Cambodian government should cooperate with the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund to attract foreign expertise and technologies to treat stroke patients.
Design and Rationale of the Mechanical Retrieval and Recanalization of Stroke Clots Using Embolectomy (MR RESCUE) Trial
Authors: Kidwell Chelsea S. , Jahan Reza , Alger Jeffry R. , Schaewe Timothy J. , Guzy Judy , Starkman Sidney , Elashoff Robert , Gornbein Jeffrey , Nenov Val , Saver Jeffrey L. ,   for the MR RESCUE Investigators
Published: September 2012

Rationale

Multimodal imaging has the potential to identify acute ischaemic stroke patients most likely to benefit from late recanalization therapies.

Aims

The general aim of the Mechanical Retrieval and Recanalization of Stroke Clots Using Embolectomy Trial is to investigate whether multimodal imaging can identify patients who will benefit substantially from mechanical embolectomy for the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke up to eight-hours from symptom onset.

Design

Mechanical Retrieval and Recanalization of Stroke Clots Using Embolectomy is a randomized, controlled, blinded-outcome clinical trial.

Population studied

Acute ischaemic stroke patients with large vessel intracranial internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery M1 or M2 occlusion enrolled within eight-hours of symptom onset are eligible. The study sample size is 120 patients.

Study intervention

Patients are randomized to endovascular embolectomy employing the Merci Retriever (Concentric Medical, Mountain View, CA) or the Penumbra System (Penumbra, Alameda, CA) vs. standard medical care, with randomization stratified by penumbral pattern.

Outcomes

The primary aim of the trial is to test the hypothesis that the presence of substantial ischaemic penumbral tissue visualized on multimodal imaging (magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography) predicts patients most likely to respond to mechanical embolectomy for treatment of acute ischaemic stroke due to a large vessel, intracranial occlusion up to eight-hours from symptom onset. This hypothesis will be tested by analysing whether pretreatment imaging pattern has a significant interaction with treatment as a determinant of functional outcome based on the distribution of scores on the modified Rankin Scale measure of global disability assessed 90 days poststroke. Nested hypotheses test for ( 1 ) treatment efficacy in patients with a penumbral pattern pretreatment, and ( 2 ) absence of treatment benefit (equivalency) in patients without a penumbral pattern pretreatment. An additional aim will only be tested if the primary hypothesis of an interaction is negative: that patients treated with mechanical embolectomy have improved functional outcome vs. standard medical management.
Consumer Input for Developing Human Food Products Made with Sorghum Grain
Authors: Vázquez‐Araújo Laura , Chambers IV Edgar , Cherdchu Panat
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Because sorghum grain has important characteristics (for example, great antioxidant profile) for introduction into the regular human diet, producers and industry aim to develop successful products using sorghum as the base. The 1st step in developing products attractive for consumers is understanding consumer needs and expectations. Conjoint analysis determines attributes which may be important or unimportant for one product. In this study, focus groups and conjoint analysis were used to establish which attributes are helpful for promoting purchase intent of sorghum grain products. Once those characteristics were chosen, a national survey was conducted to confirm the selection. During the focus groups, the heath aspects of grain products seemed to be the most appealing for consumers, whereas conjoint analysis showed that sensory attributes were the principal drivers for purchase intent.

Practical Application:  The data presented in this study are essential for industry as a starting point for developing sorghum grain based food products. It is necessary to address consumers’ demands to ensure new products’ success in the market, and the present study clearly shows this consumers’ input.
Overcoming the Neglect of Social Process in Cross‐National and Comparative Criminology
Authors: Schaible Lonnie M.
Published: September 2012

How and why crime rates vary across different societal and cultural contexts has been a perennial question within criminological research. Numerous studies have emerged in recent years responding to calls for criminology to examine the cross‐cultural relevance of contemporary theory. While many of these studies have made significant advances, a great deal of work remains to be done in the development of theory, measurement, and methods. The present article examines the state of cross‐national criminological research, including a discussion of challenges in examining key theoretical questions. Promising avenues for overcoming issues with data and developing key theoretical perspectives to better assess how social processes explain cross‐national variations of crime are discussed.
Impact of Democratic Political Transition on the Performance of Business Firms in Ghana*
Authors: Anaman Kwabena Asomanin , Agyei‐Sasu Felix
Published: September 2012

We analyse the factors influencing the performance of firms listed in the Ghana Stock Exchange based on the rate of return on equity (ROE) using data from twenty‐two companies listed on Ghana Stock Exchange from 1990 to 2009. Governance factors and non‐governance factors specific to the firm are included. Macroeconomic factors included in the model are the inflation rate and economic growth based on the growth of real gross domestic product. Democratic political transition is incorporated in the model with two separate dummy variables representing an election year and the transition year defined as the immediate after the election year and an interaction term combining government budget deficit as the proportion of gross domestic product and election year dummy variable. The results of the analysis indicate that firms having the chief executive officer as the chairman of board have significantly less return than those where the chief executive officer is not the chairman. Further, the size of board affects negatively ROE. Economic growth and inflation affect positively ROE. The effect of democratic political transition on ROE is mixed; return increases in an election year but declines in a transition year after an election. Government budget deficit in an election year has a negative impact on ROE.
The Murray–Darling Basin Plan: An Adaptive Response to Ongoing Challenges
Authors: Crase Lin
Published: September 2012

In this concise article, I endeavour to capture some of the core issues that circumscribe the controversial Murray–Darling Basin Plan to offer an assessment of the current strengths and weaknesses embodied in the most recent iteration. I use this article to explore the notion of “over‐allocation” before honing in on the role of adaptive management, which has featured prominently in recent versions of the Plan. Although this arguably represents the strongest component of the Plan, there remain marked inconsistencies between an adaptive management approach and other elements of the water policy. This article is used to encourage a rethink of some of those measures.
Evaluation of Cardiac Phenotype in Horses with Type 1 Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy
Authors: Naylor R.J. , Luis‐Fuentes V. , Livesey L. , Mobley C.B. , Henke N. , Brock K. , Fernandez‐Fuente M. , Piercy R.J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Type 1 polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM1), an equine glycogen storage disorder caused by a gain of function mutation (R309H) in the gene encoding glycogen synthase (GYS1), is associated with the accumulation of amylase‐resistant alpha‐crystalline polysaccharide inclusions within skeletal muscle. Several glycogenoses in humans have a cardiac phenotype, and reports exist of horses withPSSMand polysaccharide inclusions in cardiac muscle.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To investigate the hypothesis that horses with PSSM1 display a cardiac phenotype. Our objectives were to compare plasma cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentration and the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias in PSSM1 homozygotes, heterozygotes, and control horses.

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐fiveBelgian andPercheron horses under the same management were genotyped for theR309HGYS1mutation. From these, 8 age‐, breed‐, and sex‐matched cohorts of each genotype were identified. PlasmacTnIconcentration and incidence of cardiac arrhythmias (determined by 24‐hour HolterECG) were compared between the groups.

Results

Although somePSSM1‐affected horses had mildly increased plasmacTnIconcentrations, there was no significant difference incTnIconcentrations between groups. There were no significant differences in the incidence of ectopic beats, cardiac conduction intervals or mean heart rate between groups.

Conclusions and clinical importance

We found no evidence of clinically relevant cardiac myocyte injury or arrhythmias in horses withPSSM1. Additional study is required to determine whether myocardial function may be compromised in this disorder.
Cervical Vertebral Stenosis Associated with a Vertebral Arch Anomaly in the Basset Hound
Authors: De Decker S. , De Risio L. , Lowrie M. , Mauler D. , Beltran E. , Giedja A. , Kenny P.J. , Gielen I. , Garosi L. , Volk H.
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To report the clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, treatment results, and histopathological findings of a previously undescribed vertebral malformation in the Basset Hound.

Animals and Methods

Retrospective case series study. Eighteen Basset Hounds presented for evaluation of a suspected cervical spinal cord problem. All dogs underwent computed tomography myelography or magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical region.

Results

Thirteen male and 5 female Basset Hounds between 6 months and 10.8 years of age (median: 1.4 years) were studied. Clinical signs varied from cervical hyperesthesia to nonambulatory tetraparesis. Imaging demonstrated a well‐defined and smooth hypertrophy of the dorsal lamina and spinous process of ≥2 adjacent vertebrae. Although this bony abnormality could decrease the ventrodorsal vertebral canal diameter, dorsal midline spinal cord compression was predominantly caused by ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. The articulation between C4 and C5 was most commonly affected. Three dogs were lost to follow‐up, 10 dogs underwent dorsal laminectomy, and medical management was initiated in 5 dogs. Surgery resulted in a good outcome with short hospitalization times (median: 4.5 days) in all dogs, whereas medical management produced more variable results. Histopathology confirmed ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and demonstrated the fibrocartilaginous nature of this anomaly.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dorsal lamina and spinous process hypertrophy leading to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy should be included in the differential diagnosis of Basset Hounds with cervical hyperesthesia or myelopathy. Prognosis after decompressive surgery is favorable. Although a genetic component is suspected, additional studies are needed to determine the specific etiology of this disorder.