bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Aged and Denatured Fingerprints Using the Cyanoacrylate Fuming Technique Following Dusting with Amino Acid‐Containing Powders
Authors: Nixon Carly , Almond Matthew J. , Baum John V. , Bond John W.
Published: January 2013

Abstract

We have carried out experiments to investigate the aging of latent fingerprints deposited on black PVC over a period of 4–15 weeks. A thumbprint was used in each case and before deposition of the print the donor rubbed their thumb around their nose to add sebaceous deposits. We have studied the effect of heat, light, and moisture and we find that moisture is the most significant factor in the degradation of the latent print. We have attempted to enhance these latent prints by dusting with valine powder or powders composed of valine mixed with gold or red fluorescent commercial fingerprint powders. To make a direct comparison between “treated” and “untreated” prints, the prints were cut in half with one‐half being “treated” and one‐half not. Our studies show the best results being obtained when powders of valine and red fluorescent powders are applied prior to cyanoacrylate fuming.
Murder Followed by Suicide: Filicide–Suicide Mothers in Italy from 1992 to 2010
Authors: D'Argenio Alberto , Catania Giorgia , Marchetti Marco
Published: January 2013

The international literature shows that in 40–50% of the cases, homicides–suicides involving children under the age of 10 are committed by mothers. Here, we report some results on homicides–suicides, in the mother–child relationship, occurred in Italy between 1992 and 2010.

We examined 36 cases of filicide–suicide mothers by consulting the archives of RAI, daily newspapers, and the ANSA news agency. We focused on: mothers and children's age, place of residence, date and place of the murder, number and sex of the murdered children, and modality of the homicide–suicide.

At the time of the homicide–suicide, the average age of mothers was 35.4. The number of children killed by each mother was one, except in seven cases. All the women had underestimated psychopathological disorders and only six women were regularly treated.

The dynamics and characteristics of the events were much more similar to suicides than homicides, so we can consider them as “extensive suicides.”
Bactericidal Activities of Health‐Promoting, Food‐Derived Powders Against the Foodborne Pathogens Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Friedman Mendel , Henika Philip R. , Levin Carol E.
Published: January 2013

We evaluated the relative bactericidal activities (BA50) of 10 presumed health‐promoting food‐based powders (nutraceuticals) and, for comparison, selected known components against the following foodborne pathogens: Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. The relative activities were evaluated using quantitative bactericidal activity [(BA50 value, defined as the percentage of the sample in the assay mixture that resulted in a 50% decrease in colony forming units]. The BA50 values were determined by fitting the data to a sigmoidal curve by regression analysis using concentration–antimicrobial response data. Antimicrobial activity is indicated by a low BA50 value; meaning less material is needed to kill 50% of the bacteria. Olive pomace, olive juice powder, and oregano leaves were active against all 4 pathogens, suggesting that they behave as broad‐spectrum antimicrobials. All powders exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against S. aureus. The following powders showed exceptionally high activity against S. aureus (as indicated by the low BA50 values shown in parentheses): apple skin extract (0.002%); olive pomace (0.008%); and grape seed extract (0.016%). Listeria bacteria were also highly susceptible to apple skin extract (0.007%). The most active substances provide candidates for the evaluation of antimicrobial effectiveness in human food and animal feed.

Practical Application: Plant‐derived health‐promoting food supplements, high in bioactive compounds, are candidates for use as antimicrobials in food.
Emergency Research: Using Exception from Informed Consent, Evaluation of Community Consultations
Authors: Govindarajan Prasanthi , Dickert Neal W. , Meeker Michele , De Souza Natalie , Harney Deneil , Hemphill Claude J. , Pentz Rebecca
Published: January 2013

Background

In 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved regulations authorizing an exception from informed consent (EFIC) for research conducted in emergency settings when obtaining prospective informed consent is not possible due to the potential subject's critical illness or injury. The regulations require that investigators conduct community consultation (CC) efforts before initiating a study and require that institutional review boards review the results of CC prior to approving a study. However, little is known about how communities view EFIC research or the CC process.

Objectives

The objective was to assess the views of CC meeting attendees regarding the CC process, their understanding and views of EFIC research relating to the specific research trial under discussion, and their level of trust in physician‐investigators.

Methods

Following CC meetings at two study sites (San Francisco and Atlanta) for the Rapid Anticonvulsant Medication Prior to Arrival Trial (RAMPART), an active comparison, randomized trial of prehospital treatment for status epilepticus, the authors administered a pair of surveys to participants. One survey focused on CC experiences (CC survey) and trust in physician‐investigators; the second assessed participants' understanding of EFIC and the RAMPART clinical trial design (EFIC survey).

Results

A total of 317 individuals participated in one of the two most popular types of CC meetings (group meetings and focus group sessions) at both sites. A total of 189 participants (59%) completed the CC survey and trust questions, and 297 (92%) completed the EFIC survey. Of those who completed the CC survey, 173 of 189 (92%) were very satisfied with the meeting, and 174 of 189 (92%) felt that they learned a lot about research at the meeting. A total of 169 of 189 participants (88%) felt that researchers heard the community's concerns, while only 106 of 189 (56%) said researchers would be willing to make changes to the study based on their concerns. Of those who completed the EFIC survey, 261 of 297 (88%) supported the study, 207 of 297 (70%) said they would agree to participate in the study, and 203 of 297 (68%) reported that they would agree to consent a loved one into the study. On a recently validated scale measuring trust in physician‐investigators, participants at both sites seemed to have higher levels of trust in physician‐investigators than the validation study population.

Conclusions

Overall, members of these two communities expressed satisfaction with the CC session and had relatively high levels of support for the study and trust in physician‐investigators.
Primary Versus Secondary Closure of Cutaneous Abscesses in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Singer Adam J. , Taira Breena R. , Chale Stuart , Bhat Rahul , Kennedy David , Schmitz Gillian
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Cutaneous abscesses have traditionally been treated with incision and drainage (I&D) and left to heal by secondary closure. The objective was to compare the healing rates of cutaneous abscesses following I&D after primary or secondary closure.

Methods

This was a randomized, controlled, trial, balanced by center, with blocked randomization created by a random‐number generator. One urban and one suburban academic emergency department (ED) participated. Subjects were randomized to primary or secondary wound closure following I&D of the abscess. Main outcome measures were the percentage of healed wounds (wound was completely closed by visual inspection; a 40% difference in wound healing was sought) and overall failure rate (need for additional intervention including suture removal, additional drainage, antibiotics, or admission within 7 days after drainage).

Results

Fifty‐six adult patients with simple localized cutaneous abscesses were included; 29 were randomized to primary closure, and 27 were randomized to secondary closure. Healing rates at 7 days were similar between the primary and secondary closure groups (69.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 49.1% to 84.4% vs. 59.3%, 95% CI = 40.7% to 75.5%; difference 10.3%, 95% CI = −15.8% to 34.1%). Overall failure rates at 7 days were also similar between the primary and secondary closure groups (30.4%, 95% CI = 15.6% to 50.9% vs. 28.6%, 95% CI = 15.2% to 47.1%; difference 1.8%, 95% CI = −24.2% to 28.8%).

Conclusions

The rates of wound healing and treatment failure following I&D of simple abscesses in the ED are similar after primary or secondary closure. The authors did not detect a difference of at least 40% in healing rates between primary and secondary closure.
Frequent Emergency Department Use Among Released Prisoners With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Characterization Including a Novel Multimorbidity Index
Authors: Meyer Jaimie P. , Qiu Jingjun , Chen Nadine E. , Larkin Gregory L. , Altice Frederick L.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The objective was to characterize the medical, social, and psychiatric correlates of frequent emergency department (ED) use among released prisoners with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Methods

Data on all ED visits by 151 released prisoners with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were prospectively collected for 12 months. Correlates of frequent ED use, defined as having two or more ED visits postrelease, were described using univariate and multivariate models and generated medical, psychiatric, and social multimorbidity indices.

Results

Forty‐four (29%) of the 151 participants were defined as frequent ED users, accounting for 81% of the 227 ED visits. Frequent ED users were more likely than infrequent or nonusers to be female; have chronic medical illnesses that included seizures, asthma, and migraines; and have worse physical health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). In multivariate Poisson regression models, frequent ED use was associated with lower physical HRQoL (odds ratio [OR] = 0.95, p = 0.02) and having not had prerelease discharge planning (OR = 3.16, p = 0.04). Frequent ED use was positively correlated with increasing psychiatric multimorbidity index values.

Conclusions

Among released prisoners with HIV, frequent ED use is driven primarily by extensive comorbid medical and psychiatric illness. Frequent ED users were also less likely to have received prerelease discharge planning, suggesting missed opportunities for seamless linkages to care.
Diagnostic Accuracy of History, Physical Examination, and Bedside Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Extremity Fractures in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review
Authors: Joshi Nikita , Lira Alena , Mehta Ninfa , Paladino Lorenzo , Sinert Richard
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Understanding history, physical examination, and ultrasonography (US) to diagnose extremity fractures compared with radiography has potential benefits of decreasing radiation exposure, costs, and pain and improving emergency department (ED) resource management and triage time.

Methods

The authors performed two electronic searches using PubMed and EMBASE databases for studies published between 1965 to 2012 using a strategy based on the inclusion of any patient presenting with extremity injuries suspicious for fracture who had history and physical examination and a separate search for US performed by an emergency physician (EP) with subsequent radiography. The primary outcome was operating characteristics of ED history, physical examination, and US in diagnosing radiologically proven extremity fractures. The methodologic quality of the studies was assessed using the quality assessment of studies of diagnostic accuracy tool (QUADAS‐2).

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for history and physical examination, while eight studies met the inclusion criteria for US. There was significant heterogeneity in the studies that prevented data pooling. Data were organized into subgroups based on anatomic fracture locations, but heterogeneity within the subgroups also prevented data pooling. The prevalence of fracture varied among the studies from 22% to 70%. Upper extremity physical examination tests have positive likelihood ratios (LRs) ranging from 1.2 to infinity and negative LRs ranging from 0 to 0.8. US sensitivities varied between 85% and 100%, specificities varied between 73% and 100%, positive LRs varied between 3.2 and 56.1, and negative LRs varied between 0 and 0.2.

Conclusions

Compared with radiography, EP US is an accurate diagnostic test to rule in or rule out extremity fractures. The diagnostic accuracy for history and physical examination are inconclusive. Future research is needed to understand the accuracy of ED US when combined with history and physical examination for upper and lower extremity fractures.
Risk Factors for Radiocontrast Nephropathy After Emergency Department Contrast‐enhanced Computerized Tomography
Authors: Traub Stephen J. , Kellum John A. , Tang Aimee , Cataldo Lauren , Kancharla Adarsh , Shapiro Nathan I.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Radiocontrast nephropathy (RCN) is a known complication of procedures in which intravascular iodinated contrast material is used. The authors sought to determine the risk factors for RCN after emergency department (ED) contrast‐enhanced computerized tomography (CECT).

Methods

This was a retrospective case–control study of patients presenting to a tertiary care ED between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2006. Inclusion criteria were CECT performed in the ED, serum creatinine measured prior to CECT, and serum creatinine measured 48 to 96 hours after CECT. Exclusion criterion was dialysis‐dependent renal failure prior to CECT. The outcome of RCN was defined as an absolute creatinine increase of greater than or equal to 0.5 mg/dL, or a 25% increase above baseline. The charts of all RCN patients and a random sample of non‐RCN patients were reviewed to document the presence or absence of potential risk factors. Univariate analysis was performed using chi‐square and multiple logistic regression applying a weighted technique to account for sampling of non‐RCN patients.

Results

Among the 5,006 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 349 (7%) developed RCN. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that serum creatinine > 2 mg/dL, liver disease, heart failure, hematocrit < 30%, hypertension, and diabetes were risk factors for RCN, whereas age > 75 years, vascular disease, and serum creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL were not. The area under the curve (AUC) for the model was 0.65. Although the risk of RCN increased with the number of risk factors present, we could not develop a model with sufficient diagnostic accuracy to guide clinical decision‐making.

Conclusions

The authors report risk factors for RCN in a large case–control study, but could not develop an accurate decision tool to identify patients at increased risk for RCN after ED CECT.
Comparison of Clinical Features and Outcomes of Hospitalized Adult Patients With Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Pneumonia and Other Pneumonia
Authors: Sohn Chang Hwan , Ryoo Seung Mok , Yoon Ji Young , Seo Dong Woo , Lim Kyoung Soo , Kim Sung Han , Hong Sang Bum , Lim Chae Man , Koh Youn Suck , Kim Won Young
Published: January 2013

Objectives

A novel swine‐origin influenza A (H1N1) virus caused worldwide outbreaks starting in April 2009. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of pandemic 2009 H1N1 pneumonia by comparing to community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) of other origin.

Methods

The authors conducted a prospective cohort study of consecutive adult (over 15 years old) patients with suspected CAP requiring admission to a tertiary university‐affiliated hospital during the second wave of pandemic 2009 H1N1 influenza. Based on the results of real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis, the staff completed a standard assessment form and managed the patients according to a uniform protocol. Clinical characteristics, as well as laboratory and radiologic findings, were collected and compared between pandemic 2009 H1N1 pneumonia and CAP of other origin. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality and secondary outcomes were duration of hospitalization, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and requirement of mechanical ventilation.

Results

A total of 135 patients with suspected CAP were included in the study. Of these, 59 patients were RT‐PCR positive for H1N1 virus, and 76 patients were RT‐PCR negative. Patients with H1N1 pneumonia were significantly younger than those with CAP of other origin (46.0 years vs. 68.0 years, p < 0.01) and more frequently had nonspecific symptoms (p < 0.01), initial leukopenia (8.5% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.01), lymphopenia (45.8% vs. 26.3%, p = 0.02), low values of C‐reactive protein (CRP; 5.2 mg/dL vs. 13.4 mg/dL, p = 0.02), bilateral abnormalities (57.7% vs. 29.7%, p < 0.01) on chest radiography, ground glass opacities (43.9% vs. 12.8%, p < 0.01) on chest computed tomography, and low values of pneumonia severity index (PSI) score (56.0 vs. 91.0, p < 0.01) than those with CAP of other origin. However, there were no significant differences in infection severity, clinical outcome, length of ICU stay, requirement for mechanical ventilation, and mortality between the two groups.

Conclusions

This study shows that clinical characteristics and outcomes of 2009 H1N1 pneumonia are comparable to those of CAP of other origin. However, some characteristics, including younger age, nonspecific symptoms (including headache, leukopenia, and fatigue), lymphopenia, lower initial CRP and PSI score, and radiologic findings (including bilateral abnormalities and ground glass opacities), may help clinicians to diagnostically differentiate between H1N1 pneumonia and CAP of other origin before the result of RT‐PCR are obtained.
A Regional Survey to Determine Factors Influencing Patient Choices in Selecting a Particular Emergency Department for Care
Authors: Grafstein Eric , Wilson Danielle , Stenstrom Rob , Jones Catherine , Tolson Margreth , Poureslami Iraj , Scheuermeyer Frank Xavier
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Increases in regional emergency department (ED) efficiencies might be obtained by shifting patients to less crowded EDs. The authors sought to determine factors associated with a patient's decision to choose a specific regional ED. Based on prior focus group discussions with volunteers, the hypothesis was that distance to a specific ED and perceived ED wait times would be important.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was developed using qualitative focus group methodology. The resulting survey was composed of 17 questions relating to patient decisions in choosing a specific ED and was administered in each of six EDs in a single urban Canadian health region at all hours of the day. Ambulatory patients with a Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) level 3 to 5 and aged ≥19 years were surveyed. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients whose main motivation for attending a specific ED was either distance traveled to reach the ED or perceived ED waiting time. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess factors influencing both of these reasons.

Results

A total of 757 patients were approached and 634 surveys (83.8%) were completed. Distance from the ED (named by 44.0% of respondents as their primary reason) and perceived ED wait times (9.3%) were the main motivations for patients to attend a specific ED. Multivariable analysis of factors associated with choosing distance revealed that ED distance < 10 km (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.45 to 3.33; p = 0.001) and age ≥ 60 years (adjusted OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.12 to 2.26; p = 0.04) were significant in choosing a particular ED. Multivariable analysis of factors influencing wait times demonstrated that having a painful complaint (adjusted OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.05 to 1.98; p = 0.047) and age < 60 years (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.02 to 2.14; p = 0.049) were significant in choosing a particular ED.

Conclusions

In a multicenter survey of patients from an urban health region, distance to a specific ED and perceived ED wait times were the most important reasons for choosing that ED. Younger patients and those with painful conditions appear to place greater priority on wait times.
Alcohol Outlet Densities and Alcohol Price: TheBritishColumbia Experiment in the Partial Privatization of Alcohol Sales Off‐Premise
Authors: Treno Andrew J. , Ponicki William R. , Stockwell Tim , Macdonald Scott , Gruenewald Paul J. , Zhao Jinhui , Martin Gina , Greer Alissa
Published: January 2013

Background

Alcohol beverage prices or taxes have been shown to be related to alcohol sales and use and related problems. What is not clear are the mechanisms underlying these relationships.

Methods

This study examines the relationship between alcohol outlet density under conditions of the partial privatization of off‐premise consumption inBritishColumbia (BC) occurring over the past decade. Two hypotheses are tested. First, reflecting basic supply–demand principles, greater geographic densities of alcohol outlets will be directly related to reductions in beverage prices in response to greater competition. Second, reflecting the effects of niche marketing and resulting market stratification, increased densities of private liquor stores will be especially related to reductions in beverage prices within this outlet category. Data were collected from: (i) a survey ofBCprivate store prices and practices, (ii) alcohol outlet location information, and (iii) data on demographic characteristics. Multilevel models examine the relationships between prices at individual private liquor stores and the densities of government liquor stores, private liquor stores, bars, and restaurants, controlling for background demographics and geographic unit level effects. Spatial dependencies were also examined.

Results

Increased densities of private liquor stores were associated with lower mean prices of beer and all alcohol aggregated across brands at the store level. There appeared to be no outlet level effect on discounting patterns, however, with the mean price differences apparently reflecting differences in the quality of brands carried rather than unequal prices for any given brand.

Conclusions

Increased densities of private off‐sale alcohol outlets appear to result in lower prices charged at said establishments independently of other types of alcohol outlets suggesting that they represent an emerging marketing niche in the context of off‐sale outlet privatization.
Childhood sexual abuse and early substance use in adolescent girls: the role of familial influences
Authors: Sartor Carolyn E. , Waldron Mary , Duncan Alexis E. , Grant Julia D. , McCutcheon Vivia V. , Nelson Elliot C. , Madden Pamela A. F. , Bucholz Kathleen K. , Heath Andrew C.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To assess the extent to which the association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and early use of alcohol, cigarettes and cannabis in adolescent girls is mediated by risk factors that tend to cluster in families where CSA occurs.

Design

An abridged version of the Semi‐Structured Assessment for the Genetics of Alcoholism (SSAGA) was administered by telephone.

Participants

A total of 3761 female twins aged 18–29 (14.6% African American, 85.4% European American).

Measurements

CSA experiences and history of substance use were queried in the SSAGA‐based interviews.

Findings

After controlling for familial influences on early substance use by including co‐twin early use status in models, separate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses predicting onset of alcohol, cigarette and cannabis use revealed a significant association with CSA. The effect was observed to age 19 years for cigarettes and to age 21 years for cannabis, but was limited to age 14 years or younger for alcohol, with the most pronounced risk before age 10 [hazard ratio (HR) = 4.59; confidence interval (CI): 1.96–10.74]. CSA‐associated risk for initiation of cigarette and cannabis use was also highest in the youngest age range, but the decline with age was much more gradual and the hazard ratios significantly lower (HR: 1.70; CI: 1.13–2.56 for cigarettes and HR: 2.34, CI: 1.57–3.48 for cannabis).

Conclusions

Childhood sexual abuse history is a distinct risk factor for use of cigarettes and cannabis, and a very strong predictor of early age at first drink.
Drink driving in Hong Kong: the competing effects of random breath testing and alcohol tax reductions
Authors: Kim Jean H. , Wong Alvin H. , Goggins William B. , Lau Joseph , Griffiths Sian M.
Published: January 2013

Aims

To investigate the competing effects of increased anti‐drink driving legislation and the recent elimination of excise taxes on wine and beer.

Design

Serial cross‐sectional telephone surveys were conducted in 2006 (n = 9860) and 2011 (n = 4800).

Setting

Hong Kong, China.

Participants

Chinese adults (≥18 years of age).

Measurements

Respondents were asked about their drinking patterns, past‐year experience of driving within 2 hours of drinking, drinking‐related attitudes and reported deterrents to drink driving.

Findings

Following the legislative changes, the age‐standardized past‐year prevalence of drink driving decreased significantly from 5.2 to 2.8% (P < 0.001) among all males, from 9.0 to 4.4% (P < 0.001) among male past‐year drinkers and from 13.7 to 8.5% (P < 0.01) among male weekly drinkers. The past‐year prevalence of drink driving in 2011 among all females (0.08%), female past‐year drinkers (1.6%), male binge drinkers (12.5%), female weekly drinkers (4.7%) and female binge drinkers (7.9%) were not significantly different from 2006. Drink driving was associated independently with business sector employment [odds ratio (OR) = 2.47], past‐month binge drinking (OR = 6.08) and beliefs in the benefits to one's wellbeing of drinking (OR = 2.62) among males and past‐month binge drinking (OR = 5.57), belief in the social benefits of drinking (OR = 5.66) and being unmarried (OR = 3.00) in females (P < 0.05). The most commonly reported drink driving deterrents were concerns about random breath tests (93.8%) and the potential legal consequences of conviction (93.6–96.5%).

Conclusions

Despite greater alcohol consumption in Hong Kong, the current anti‐drink driving strategy appears to reduce drink driving in males and prevent increased levels among females. Binge drinkers, however, remain a high‐risk group that should be monitored continually.
Habitat fragmentation in forests affects relatedness and spatial genetic structure of a native rodent, Rattus lutreolus
Authors: STEPHENS HELEN C. , SCHMUKI CHRISTINA , BURRIDGE CHRISTOPHER P. , O'REILLY‐WAPSTRA JULIANNE M.
Published: January 2013

Habitat fragmentation can have a range of negative demographic and genetic impacts on disturbed populations. Dispersal barriers can be created, reducing gene flow and increasing population differentiation and inbreeding in isolated habitat remnants. Aggregated retention is a form of forestry that retains patches of forests as isolated island or connected edge patches, with the aim of ‘lifeboating’ species and processes, retaining structural features and improving connectivity. Swamp rats (Rattus lutreolus) are a cover‐dependent species that are sensitive to habitat removal. We examined the effects of aggregated retention forestry and forestry roads in native wet Eucalyptus forests on swamp rat gene flow and population genetic structure. We characterized neighbourhood size in unlogged forest to provide a natural state for comparison, and examined population structure at a range of spatial scales, which provided context for our findings. Tests of pairwise relatedness indicated significant differentiation between island and edge populations in aggregated retention sites, and across roads in unlogged sites. Spatial autocorrelation suggested a neighbourhood size of 42–55 m and revealed male‐biased dispersal. We found no genetic isolation by geographical distance at larger (>2.3 km) scales and populations were all significantly differentiated. Our results suggest that removal of mature forest creates barriers for swamp rat dispersal. In particular, roads may have long‐term impacts, while harvesting of native forests is likely to create only short‐term dispersal barriers at the local scale, depending on the rate of regeneration.
Welfare implications of reduced government subsidies to farm families: accounting for fringe benefits
Authors: D'Antoni Jeremy M. , Mishra Ashok K.
Published: January 2013

In the past three decades, farm families have relied on government payments and off‐farm income to reduce income risk and increase total household income. Studies have shown that, as the income effect dominates, government payments tend to reduce off‐farm labor of farm operators and spouses. But that may not be true if one accounts for fringe benefits associated with off‐farm employment. Additionally, with looming budget deficits and the possibility of a reduction in decoupled government payments, farm families may be facing an altered economic environment. Our study addresses this issue by examining the links between government farm program payments and the ever‐important role of fringe benefits in the off‐farm employment of farm couples. Results from farm‐level data actually show that the marginal effect of government payments on hours worked off‐farm will decrease in magnitude when accounting for fringe benefits, ceteris paribus. These results support the notion that farm households’ welfare loss stemming from reduced decoupled payments may be overstated when models exclude fringe benefits from the estimation of off‐farm labor supply.
The learning benefits of using eye trackers to enhance the geospatial abilities of elementary school students
Authors: Wang Hsiao‐shen , Chen Yi‐Ting , Lin Chih‐Hung
Published: January 2013

In this study, we examined the spatial abilities of students using eye‐movement tracking devices to identify and analyze their characteristics. For this research, 12 students aged 11–12 years participated as novices and 4 mathematics students participated as experts. A comparison of the visual‐spatial abilities of each group showed key factors of superior spatial ability, and a spatial ability instructional strategy was developed. After training, the same spatial ability test was conducted again, and eye‐tracking records were used to compare the participants' line‐of‐sight and answer rate results with those of the previous test. Specific references and recommendations are provided for spatial ability training education and assessment.
Becoming a group: Value convergence and emergent work group identities
Authors: Meeussen Loes , Delvaux Ellen , Phalet Karen
Published: January 2013

This study examines the process of group identity formation through social interaction in real‐life work groups, with a focus on achievement values as content of work group identities. Extending research on social identity formation, we examined the process of value convergence as group members negotiate common group goals. Specifically, we predicted that work group members would influence each other's achievement values and that value convergence over time would underlie emergent work group identities and work group performance. Using a fully cross‐lagged multilevel design with four repeated measures in 68 work groups, we find that group members' achievement values converge through mutual social influence. Moreover, multilevel polynomial regression analysis reveals that value convergence – rather than group members' initial value fit – longitudinally predicts work group identification and performance.
Shooting the messenger: Outsiders critical of your group are rejected regardless of argument quality
Authors: Esposo Sarah R. , Hornsey Matthew J. , Spoor Jennifer R.
Published: January 2013

People are more resistant to criticisms of their group when those criticisms are made by an outgroup rather than an ingroup member, a phenomenon referred to as the intergroup sensitivity effect (ISE). The current study compared four competing models of how argument quality would moderate the ISE, with a view to establishing the complex interrelationships between source and message effects in group‐directed criticism. Quality of the argument affected responses to ingroup critics, but not to outgroup critics. For outsiders who wish to promote positive change and reform in a group culture, this leads to a somewhat depressing conclusion: their message is likely to be rejected regardless of whether it is objectively ‘right’, well‐considered, well‐justified, or well‐argued.
Sample size determinations for Welch's test in one‐way heteroscedastic ANOVA
Authors: Jan Show‐Li , Shieh Gwowen
Published: January 2013

For one‐way fixed effects ANOVA, it is well known that the conventional F test of the equality of means is not robust to unequal variances, and numerous methods have been proposed for dealing with heteroscedasticity. On the basis of extensive empirical evidence of Type I error control and power performance, Welch's procedure is frequently recommended as the major alternative to the ANOVA F test under variance heterogeneity. To enhance its practical usefulness, this paper considers an important aspect of Welch's method in determining the sample size necessary to achieve a given power. Simulation studies are conducted to compare two approximate power functions of Welch's test for their accuracy in sample size calculations over a wide variety of model configurations with heteroscedastic structures. The numerical investigations show that Levy's (1978a) approach is clearly more accurate than the formula of Luh and Guo (2011) for the range of model specifications considered here. Accordingly, computer programs are provided to implement the technique recommended by Levy for power calculation and sample size determination within the context of the one‐way heteroscedastic ANOVA model.
Prostaglandin E2‐induced intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 expression is mediated by cAMP/Epac signalling modules in bEnd.3 brain endothelial cells
Authors: Park Tae Yeop , Baik Eun Joo , Lee Soo Hwan
Published: January 2013

Background and Purpose

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has been implicated in the regulation of adhesion molecules, leukocyte adhesion and infiltration into inflamed site. However, the underlying mechanism therein involved remains ill‐defined. In this study, we explored its cellular mechanism of action in the regulation of the intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) expression in the brain endothelial cells.

Experimental Approach

bEnd.3 cells, the murine cerebrovascular endothelial cell line and primary mouse brain endothelial cells were treated with PGE2 with or without agonists/antagonists of PGE2 receptors and associated signalling molecules. ICAM‐1 expression, Akt phosphorylation and activity of NF‐κB were determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), immunoblot analysis, luciferase assay and immunocytochemistry.

Key Results

PGE2 significantly up‐regulated the expression of ICAM‐1, which was blocked by EP4 antagonist (ONO‐AE2‐227) and knock‐down of EP4. PGE2 effects were mimicked by forskolin, dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP) and an exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) activator (8‐Cpt‐cAMP) but not a protein kinase A activator (N6‐Bnz‐cAMP). PGE2‐induced ICAM‐1 expression was reduced by knock‐down of Epac1. A PI3K specific inhibitor (LY294002), Akt inhibitor VIII (Akti) and NF‐κB inhibitors (Bay‐11–7082 and MG‐132) attenuated the induction of ICAM‐1 by PGE2. PGE2, dbcAMP and 8‐Cpt‐cAMP induced the phosphorylation of Akt, IκB kinase and IκBα and the translocation of p65 to the nucleus and increased NF‐κB dependent reporter gene activity, which was diminished by Akti.

Conclusion and Implications

Our findings suggest that PGE2 induces ICAM‐1 expression via EP4 receptor and Epac/Akt/NF‐κB signalling pathway in bEnd.3 brain endothelial cells, supporting its pathophysiological role in brain inflammation.
Maintenance of marginal bone support and soft tissue esthetics at immediately provisionalizedOsseoSpeed™ implants placed into extraction sites: 2‐year results
Authors: Noelken Robert , Neffe Bettina Anna , Kunkel Martin , Wagner Wilfried
Published: January 2013

Background

Placement of implants into extraction sockets targets the maintenance of peri‐implant hard and soft tissue structures and the support of a natural and esthetic contour. The main advantages of immediate implant insertion in comparison with delayed implant placement protocols are as follows: a reduced treatment time, less number of sessions, and, thus, the less invasive procedure. This study examines the clinical performance (survival rate, marginal bone levels andPinkEstheticScore [PES]) of OsseoSpeed™ implants placed into extraction sockets with immediate provisionalization in the anterior maxilla after a follow‐up of at least 12 months.

Methods

Twenty patients received a total number of 37OsseoSpeed™ implants which were immediately inserted into extraction sockets with or without facial bone deficiencies of various dimensions. A flapless procedure was applied, and the implants were immediately provisionalized with temporary crowns without occlusal contacts. Facial gaps between implant surface and facial bone or the previous contour of the alveolar process were grafted with autogenous bone chips. Implants in diameters 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, and 5.0 with lengths of 11–17 mm were used in the study. During the course of the study, interproximal marginal bone levels, the thickness of the facial bony wall, implant success rate according to the criteria established by Buser, and thePESwere assessed per implant.

Results

One patient with three implants did not continue the study after prosthesis delivery, the remaining 34 implants were still in function at the final follow‐up (survival rate: 100%). The mean follow‐up period was 27 months (range, 12–40 months). Marginal bone height at the level of the implant shoulder averaged −0.1 ± 0.55 mm (range, −1.25 to 1.47 mm) at the final follow‐up. The meanPESratings were 11.3 ± 1.8 (range, 6–14) at the final follow‐up. In 78% of the patients, thePESwas preserved or even improved.

Conclusions

Success rates, marginal bone levels, and esthetic results suggest proof of principle for the preservation of marginal bone height at immediately placed and provisionalizedOsseoSpeed™ implants after a follow‐up of at least 12 months. Even implant sites with facial bony deficiencies can be successfully treated with a favorable esthetic outcome using the immediate implant insertion, immediate reconstruction, and immediate provisionalization technique.
Socio‐demographic and obstetrical correlates of pre‐pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain
Authors: Bogaerts A. , Van den Bergh B. , Nuyts E. , Martens E. , Witters I. , Devlieger R.
Published: January 2013

Both pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) are important determinants of a healthy pregnancy outcome and may show important variation. To study the influence of socio‐demographic and obstetrical correlates on pre‐pregnancy BMI and GWG, data of 54 022 singleton term pregnancies were analysed using adjusted regression models. In 2009, in the Northern region of Belgium, one‐third of women were overweight (21.6%) or obese (10.1%) and GWG as recommended by the Institute of Medicine occurred in only 28% of obese women. A high pre‐pregnancy BMI was significantly associated with low maternal education, high maternal age and multiparity, belonging to ethnic minority groups and a lower professional state. Compared to adequate GWG, excessive GWG was more common in younger (<20 years) women, with higher pre‐pregnancy BMI and pregnancy‐induced hypertension. Moreover, younger (20–24 years), single women, belonging to ethnic minority groups showed higher odds for excessive as well as insufficient GWG, while those with high/highest educational level had lower odds for excessive (odds ratio [OR] 0.76; confidence interval [CI] 0.72–0.80) and insufficient (OR 0.93; CI 0.89–0.98) GWG. The results of this study highlight the scale of the problem of maternal obesity and excessive GWG for this region and offer opportunities to target educational campaigns and intervention programmes in the clinical setting.
Development and validation of a new questionnaire measuring eating disordered behaviours post bariatric surgery
Authors: Weineland S. , Alfonsson S. , Dahl J. , Ghaderi A.
Published: January 2013

Contextualization of post‐surgery circumstances in terms of key behaviours and emotions related to eating is crucial for reliable screening. Disordered eating post surgery is characterized by frequent snacking and a sense of loss of control over food intake. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a short self‐report questionnaire entitled Disordered Eating after Bariatric Surgery (DEBS). Results indicate that the DEBS possesses satisfactory psychometric properties in terms of reliability, validity, internal consistency and test–retest reliability. The DEBS may facilitate both systematic clinical evaluation and future research within the area of bariatric surgery.
The rise of Clostridium difficile infection in lung transplant recipients in the modern era
Authors: Lee Janet T. , Hertz Marshall I. , Dunitz Jordan M. , Kelly Rosemary F. , D'Cunha Jonathan , Whitson Bryan A. , Shumway Sara J.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) rates have been rising in recent years. We aimed to characterize CDI in lung transplant recipients in the modern era and hypothesized that CDI would increase the mortality risk.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing transplantation at our center from 1/2006 to 7/2011. Attributes of CDI+ and CDI− groups were compared using Student's t‐ and chi‐square tests (α = 0.05). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to control for confounding factors.

Results

Overall CDI incidence was 22.5%. Seven of 151 patients (4.6%) developed CDI during the initial hospitalization after transplantation (mean time 10.6 ± 6 d) while 27 patients (19.7%) developed CDI after discharge (mean time 467 ± 471 d). Incidence rate was 224.6 cases/100 000 patient‐days compared to 110 cases/100 000 patient‐days (rate for entire hospital). CDI was not predictive of mortality (HR 2.06, 95% CI 0.94–4.52).

Conclusion

CDI rates in lung transplant recipients are high in the modern era. No risk factors for CDI were identified. Although not statistically significant, CDI+ patients had a higher risk of death. The economic burden of CDI and trend toward worse outcomes for CDI patients have important implications for post‐operative surveillance of CDI‐related complications and need for CDI prophylaxis.
A Patient‐Centric Goal in Time to Blood Pressure Control from Drug Therapy Initiation
Authors: Hong Song Hee , Wang Junling , Tak Sunghee
Published: January 2013

A time frame in which newly diagnosed hypertensive patients attain blood pressure (BP) goal would guide patients through uncertainty associated with initiating drug therapy for hypertension control. This study estimates time to BP goal resulting from drug therapy initiation among real‐world hypertensive patients and identifies factors associated with variations in time to BP goal. The study uses a historical cohort design. Hypertensive patients who had initiated antihypertensive drug therapy between July 1, 2002, and December 31, 2003, were followed up to 12 months until the end of 2004. Electronic medical records from a medical group were linked with pharmacy claims, as well as with medical claims. Survival analyses were used to compare lengths of time needed to reach BP goals. A total of 223 patients from a real world practice setting had initiated antihypertensive drug therapy. The patients took 3.25 months (95% CI: 2.49–4.82) to reach BP goal. The patient‐centric time to BP goal was 7.1 weeks longer than those reported in controlled experimental settings. This finding highlights the gap between results of controlled clinical trials and their application to clinical practice, and informs healthcare practitioners of the importance of setting a patient‐centric goal in pharmacological treatment of hypertension. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume #: 1–6
Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of an Interprofessional Course in Translational Research
Authors: Robinson Georgeanna F.W.B. , Erlen Judith A. , Rubio Doris M. , Kapoor Wishwa N. , Poloyac Samuel M.
Published: January 2013

The advancement of research from basic science discovery to clinical application requires the extensive collaboration of individuals from multiple disciplines, therefore the ability to work as an effective interprofessional team is essential for researchers in clinical and translational science (CTS). Courses that build interprofessional skills are a key component in CTS education, but the development of these courses poses numerous administrative and educational challenges. This paper describes the processes of designing, implementing, and evaluating an innovative graduate‐level course that combines online lectures and in‐class facilitated group discussions to promote interprofessional interactions. The course offers students the opportunity to interact with and learn from individuals in a variety of disciplines, and it requires students to engage in interprofessional group work to meet the course objectives. During the past 4 years, 96 students from the schools of medicine, pharmacy, nursing, public health, and health and rehabilitation sciences at a large urban university have completed the course. The course has been well‐received, with 87% of students rating its overall quality as excellent, good, or satisfactory. The course offers educators a model to teach graduate students the skills that are essential for becoming effective CTS researchers. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume #: 1–7
A Novel Program Trains Community‐Academic Teams to Build Research and Partnership Capacity
Authors: Winckler Eva , Brown Jen , LeBailly Susan , McGee Richard , Bayldon Barbara , Huber Gail , Kaleba Erin , Lowry Kelly Walker , Martens Joseph , Mason Maryann , Nuñez Abel
Published: January 2013

The Community‐Engaged Research Team Support (CERTS) program was developed and tested to build research and partnership capacity for community‐engaged research (CEnR) teams. Led by the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (NUCATS), the goals of CERTS were: (1) to help community‐academic teams build capacity for conducting rigorous CEnR and (2) to support teams as they prepare federal grant proposal drafts. The program was guided by an advisory committee of community and clinical partners, and representatives from Chicago's Clinical and Translational Science Institutes. Monthly workshops guided teams to write elements of NIH‐style research proposals. Draft reviewing fostered a collaborative learning environment and helped teams develop equal partnerships. The program culminated in a mock‐proposal review. All teams clarified their research and acquired new knowledge about the preparation of NIH‐style proposals. Trust, partnership collaboration, and a structured writing strategy were assets of the CERTS approach. CERTS also uncovered gaps in resources and preparedness for teams to be competitive for federally funded grants. Areas of need include experience as principal investigators, publications on study results, mentoring, institutional infrastructure, and dedicated time for research.