bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropeptide Y Leu7Pro Polymorphism Associated With the Metabolic Syndrome and Its Features in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Masoudi-Kazemabad Ali , Jamialahmadi Khadijeh , Moohebati Mohsen , Mojarrad Majid , Manshadi Raheleh Dehghan , Akhlaghi Saeed , Ferns Gordon A. , Ghayour-Mobarhan Majid
Published: February 2012

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by constellation of clinical and biochemical features that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a neurotransmitter and enhances the development of obesity and other aspects of MetS. We determined the association between NPY Leu7Pro polymorphism and features of MetS in Iranian patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). A total of 550 patients with CAD including individuals with (n = 184) and without MetS (n = 366) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism. A significantly higher frequency of the Leu7Pro polymorphism was found in patients with MetS compared with the non-MetS patients ( P = .001). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in Pro7 frequency between diabetics versus nondiabetics ( P = .005), dyslipidemic versus nondyslipidemic ( P = .04), and obese versus nonobese ( P = .001) in this population. Leu7Pro polymorphism is associated with the MetS in patients with CAD.
Role of social performance in predicting learning problems: Prediction of risk using logistic regression analysis
Authors: Del Prette Zilda Aparecida Pereira , Prette Almir Del , De Oliveira Lael Almeida , Gresham Frank M. , Vance Michael J.
Published: February 2012

Social skills are specific behaviors that individuals exhibit in order to successfully complete social tasks whereas social competence represents judgments by significant others that these social tasks have been successfully accomplished. The present investigation identified the best sociobehavioral predictors obtained from different raters (judges) in order to classify children into Learning Problem (LP) and No Learning Problem (NLP) groups. A sample of 119 elementary school students from six Brazilian public state schools participated in this study. The sample consisted of 59 NLP and 60 LP students. A forward stepwise logistic regression analysis showed the peer ratings of collaborativeness was the best predictor of LP and NLP group membership and correctly classified 94% of the LP group and 90% of the NLP group. Self-ratings of compliance and self-ratings of ease of joining a peer group as well as teacher ratings of collaborativeness were added to the model which correctly classified 98% and 98.1% of the LP and NLP groups respectively. These results are discussed in terms of social skills as academic enablers for academic success in the classroom.
An AAV2/5 Vector Enhances Safety of Gene Transfer to the Mouse Salivary Gland
Authors: Geguchadze R.N. , Machen L. , Zourelias L. , Gallo P.H. , Passineau M.J.
Published: February 2012

This study was designed to improve AAV-mediated gene transfer to the murine submandibular salivary glands. Our first aim was to utilize AAV pseudotype vectors, containing the genetic elements of the canonical AAV2, packaged within capsids of AAV serotypes 5, 8, and 9. Having determined that this pseudotyping increased the efficiency of gene transfer to the glands by several orders of magnitude, we next asked whether we could reduce the gene transfer inoculum of the pseudotype while still achieving gene transfer comparable with that achieved with high-dose AAV2. Having achieved gene transfer comparable with that of AAV2 using a pseudotype vector (AAV2/5) at a 100-fold lower dose, our final objective was to evaluate the implications of this lower dose on two pre-clinical parameters of vector safety. To evaluate systemic toxicity, we measured AAV vector sequestration in the liver using qPCR, and found that the 100-fold lower dose reduced the vector recovered from the liver by 300-fold. To evaluate salivary gland function, we undertook whole-proteome profiling of salivary gland lysates two weeks after vector administration and found that high-dose (5 × 109) AAV altered the expression level of ~32% of the entire salivary gland proteome, and that the lower dose (5 × 107) reduced this effect to ~7%.
An integrated approach for supervisory control of a subclass of Petri nets
Authors: Chao Daniel Y , Wu Kuo-Chiang
Published: February 2012

This paper proposes to combine the elementary siphons controlled policy (ESCP) by Li et al. and our recovery methods (Chao DY et al.) into an integrated approach. An example is demonstrated to show that it reaches more states and uses fewer monitors. It is more efficient, since there is no need to solve a large number of inequalities in marking/transition–separation instances (MTSIs) as required in the two-stage method proposed by Li et al. to reduce the number of MTSI and the crucial-MTSI (CMTSI) method by Huang and Pan, which further reduces the number of MTSIs by reducing some MTSIs to a CMTSI. We further propose a lossless approach by colouring some arcs. This not only avoids material loss but also tackles the livelock problem and achieves higher throughput, since no states are avoided.
Impact of physical, psychological, and sexual violence on social adjustment of school children in India
Authors: Deb Sibnath , Walsh Kerryann
Published: February 2012

This study sought to understand the pervasiveness and impact of physical, psychological, and sexual violence on the social adjustment of Grade 8 and 9 school children in the state of Tripura, India. The study participants, 160 boys and 160 girls, were randomly selected from classes in eight English and Bengali medium schools in Agartala city, Tripura. Data were collected using a self-administered Semi-structured Questionnaire for Children/Students and a Social Adjustment Inventory which were custom-made for the study based on measures in the extant research adapted for the Indian context. Findings revealed that students experienced physical (21.9%), psychological (20.9%), and sexual (18.1%) violence at home, and 29.7% of the children had witnessed family violence. Boys were more often victims of physical and psychological violence while girls were more often victims of sexual violence. The social adjustment scores of school children who experienced violence, regardless of the nature of the violence, was significantly lower when compared with scores of those who had not experienced violence ( p < 0.001). Social adjustment was poorer for girls than boys ( p < 0.001). The study speaks in favour of early detection and intervention for all child maltreatment subtypes and for children exposed to interparental violence, and highlights the crucial role of schools and school psychology in addressing the problem.
Educational psychology and resilience in developing contexts: A rejoinder to Toland and Carrigan (2011)
Authors: Theron Linda C. , Donald David R.
Published: February 2012

If educational psychologists wish to make a meaningful difference as practitioners, both to the children they work with and the ecologies these children come from, then, knowledge and application of resilience theory is crucial. Toland and Carrigan (2011) underscore this relationship in their 2011 article in this Journal. In our contribution below, we extend their assertion by urging greater attention to the interactive processes which underpin resilience and, more particularly, to how proximal, face-to-face transactions embedded in mesosystems and microsystems and nuanced by the distal, macrosystemic influences, mould resilience. Using examples from resilience research conducted in South Africa we argue that such a focus (i.e. on the transactional ecosystemic nature of resilience) is crucial in developing contexts. Furthermore, we contend that sensitivity to mechanisms of resilience as well as the contexts and cultures in which these continuously evolve, begs an approach to practice that foregrounds the ecosystemic, promotes child-ecology transactions, and is cautious about generalizing resilience theory to children across diverse contexts, cultures and time periods. To conceptualize resilience as anything but a reciprocal, dynamic, contextually-influenced interaction between children and their ecologies, would be to fail children in developing contexts.
Compounding vs Standardized Commercial Parenteral Nutrition Product
Authors: Gervasio Jane
Published: February 2012

Standardized commercial parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations have advantages and disadvantages as compared with PN formulations compounded using an automated compounding device. These advantages and disadvantages are discussed along with the supporting available research. (JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2012;36:40S‐41S)
Parenteral Nutrition Therapy Over the Next 5–10 Years
Authors: DeLegge Mark H.
Published: February 2012

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is one of the most complex medical therapies prescribed by healthcare professionals because it is dependent on the compounding of multiple base solutions to arrive at the final formulation. The delivery of PN is associated with errors in ordering, transcribing, compounding, and delivery of the PN formulations. New compounding technologies will attempt to minimize the potential for these errors. In addition, the associated infectious complications associated with PN therapy need to be minimized. Commercially prepared, premixed, terminally sterilized PN solutions may have an impact. Broader decontamination technologies will be implemented to reduce the incidence of overall nosocomial infections. Modification of PN nutrients, particularly intravenous fat emulsions, will be provided by alternative biological sources, creating fats that may have an improved impact on the patient's immune system and ultimately affecting clinical outcomes.
Predicting Filipino mothers’ and fathers’ reported use of corporal punishment from education, authoritarian attitudes, and endorsement of corporal punishment
Authors: Jocson Rosanne M. , Alampay Liane Peña , Lansford Jennifer E.
Published: February 2012

The relations of education, authoritarian child-rearing attitudes, and endorsement of corporal punishment to Filipino parents’ reported use of corporal punishment were examined using two waves of data. Structured interviews using self-report questionnaires were conducted with 117 mothers and 98 fathers from 120 families when their children were 8 years old, and again a year later. Path analyses showed that, among mothers, higher education predicted lower authoritarian attitudes, which in turn predicted lower reports of corporal punishment use. Among fathers, higher education predicted lower endorsement of corporal punishment, which in turn predicted lower reports of its use. Results suggest that education has an indirect relation to use of corporal punishment through parenting cognitions, and highlight distinctions in Filipino mothers’ and fathers’ parenting roles.
Toward a More Nuanced Understanding of Intercoupling
Authors: Morgan Charlie V.
Published: February 2012

Distinguishing between interethnic and interracial coupling offers new understandings about family diversity, as well as the assimilation of immigrants and their children. An analysis of the Children of Immigrants Longitudinal Study, a survey ( N = 1,480) of the children of Asian and Latin American immigrants who live in Southern California, finds that a more accurate conceptualization of mixed couples should distinguish between interethnic and interracial couples. Although race remains a significant boundary in relationship formation, ethnicity is also important, especially in terms of language and religion. This study has demonstrated that race and ethnicity are both important social boundaries for understanding mixed couples and denote different types of mixed couples—interethnic versus interracial couples—and different types of lived experiences. At the very least, this analysis of mixed couples calls for the inclusion of interethnic couples within studies of intermarriage.
Length of Stay for Triathlon Participants in the Challenge Maresme–Barcelona
Authors: Raya Jose Maria
Published: February 2012

As in the past, local authorities continue to hold sporting events in their territory as a promotion and positioning of their brand’s international destination. The economic impact of sport events depends not only on the number of participants but also, and among other things, on the length of stay at destination. The aim of this study is to analyze the factors determining the length of stay of participants at the venue for the event, International Triathlon Challenge Barcelona–Maresme. An econometric duration or survival model is used for the analysis. Results suggest that satisfaction about the destination, being a foreign participant, and the participant’s expenditure appear to have a significant influence on the participant’s decision of how long to stay at the destination.
Can the Pathology of a Thyroid Nodule Be Determined by Positron Emission Tomography Uptake?
Authors: Boeckmann Jacob , Bartel Twyla , Siegel Eric , Bodenner Donald , Stack Brendan C.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To determine if standardized uptake values (SUV) on positron emission tomography (PET) are predictive of thyroid pathology and the significance of serial SUV measurements of thyroid nodules over time.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Academic health center.

Subjects

In total, 23,384 PET and PET/computed tomography (CT) scans were performed between December 2001 and April 2011.

Methods

Patients with incidental thyroid uptake were identified. SUVmax, age, sex, size of thyroid lesion, indication for PET scan, and cytology/pathology were collected.

Results

Incidental thyroid uptake was noted in 1309 PET scans (5.60%), focal uptake in 690 (2.95%), and diffuse uptake in 619 (2.65%). Complete data were available for 359 PET scans from 103 patients. Malignancy was identified in 28 patients (27%). Twenty‐five of the 28 lesions (89%) were primary thyroid malignancies. A significant difference between malignant SUVmax and benign SUVmax was found (mean ± SD, 7.04 ± 7.88 for malignancies vs 3.85 ± 3.06 for benign tumors, P =. 0292). Receiver operating characteristics curves were constructed on patients with PET data within 3 months of diagnosis and indicated that a SUVmax of 4.2 differentiated maximally between benign and malignant lesions. Serial SUV uptake had no significant change over time.

Conclusion

All thyroid nodules with focal uptake on 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose–PET/CT should be considered at higher risk of malignancy than those discovered incidentally by other imaging modalities. Higher SUVmax values are more indicative of malignant lesions. All lesions should be evaluated with ultrasonography ± fine‐needle aspiration if no clinical contraindications exist. Size of the primary nodule does not influence SUVmax uptake.
Factors Associated with Revision Adenoidectomy
Authors: Dearking Amy C. , Lahr Brian D. , Kuchena Admire , Orvidas Laura J.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To determine whether patient factors (eg, indication for initial surgery, medical comorbidity, or age) are associated with adenoid regrowth and subsequent need for revision adenoidectomy and whether surgical factors (eg, surgical technique or level of surgeon’s training) are associated with adenoid regrowth and subsequent need for revision adenoidectomy.

Study Design

Historical cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Children (≤18 years) who underwent adenoidectomy or adenotonsillectomy between 1980 and May 2009 were identified. Medical and surgical records were reviewed for sex, age at surgery, indication for surgery, training level of surgeon, surgical technique, and history of allergies, asthma, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Results

Of 8245 surgical cases (53.8% male), 163 were revision adenoidectomies. Age at initial adenoidectomy was a significant factor for revision adenoidectomy, with younger ages associated with higher increased risk. Indication for adenoidectomy was also a significant risk factor; adjusted for age, patients with ear rather than infectious indications were about 10 times more likely to require revision. A diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease was a significant risk factor (hazard ratio, 2.23; P =. 002).

Conclusion

Several risk factors are associated with revision adenoidectomy: young age at initial procedure, indication for adenoidectomy, and diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Surgical technique, level of experience of the initial surgeon, and diagnosis of asthma or allergies were not significant risk factors for revision adenoidectomy.
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation and Airway Changes under Fluoroscopy
Authors: Goding George S. , Tesfayesus Wondimeneh , Kezirian Eric J.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To characterize the changes in the anteroposterior dimensions of both the retropalatal and retrolingual airway spaces of the pharynx and hyoid bone position during hypoglossal nerve stimulation under general anesthesia in subjects with obstructive sleep apnea.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Academic center.

Subjects and Methods

Cross‐table fluoroscopic images obtained during hypoglossal nerve stimulation were studied in 26 subjects enrolled in the Apnex Medical Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS) system feasibility trials. Changes in the anteroposterior dimensions (2‐dimensional) of the retropalatal and retrolingual airway spaces and hyoid bone position were recorded. Measurements were estimated in millimeters and standardized to each subject’s C3 vertebral height. Opening of the pharyngeal airspace was examined relative to body mass index.

Results

During hypoglossal nerve stimulation, all subjects demonstrated anterior displacement of the tongue base on fluoroscopy. The average retrolingual airway opening was 0.71 ± 0.23 C3 vertebral body heights (9 ± 3 mm). Opening of the retropalatal airway with stimulation occurred in 65% (15/23) of subjects. When present, the average opening was 0.42 ± 0.14 vertebral heights (5 ± 3 mm). Anterior displacement of the hyoid occurred in 92% (23/25) of subjects. Retrolingual airway opening was independent of baseline body mass index.

Conclusion

Unilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation results in anterior tongue base displacement and an increase in the anterior‐posterior retrolingual airway dimensions of the pharynx, independent of body mass index. Opening of the retropalatal airway occurred in a majority of subjects and had a trend toward correlation with body mass index.
Esophageal Reflux Disease Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy Impact on Sleep Disturbance
Authors: Regenbogen Elliot , Helkin Alex , Georgopoulos Rachel , Vasu Tajender , Shroyer A. Laurie W.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To perform a systematic literature review that evaluates the impact of proton pump inhibitor treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease on sleep disturbance–related outcomes.

Data Sources

PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched from 1989 (when omeprazole became available) to present; additional references gleaned from citations.

Review Methods

The search strategy identified all randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trials published in English; both proton pump inhibitor use and outcome measures of sleep disturbance were reported for esophageal reflux disease patients. Using a preestablished systematic review protocol and data extraction format, 4 coauthors independently reviewed all articles.

Results

The original search identified 20 articles; 9 were not directly relevant, and 3 were not placebo controlled. Sample sizes varied from 15 to 642; mean age was 47.4 ± 4.56 years; mean body mass index was 29.4 ± 2.9; the proportion of women varied widely across studies. Esomeprazole was studied most frequently. More than 50% of publications permitted rescue antacids. Two studies reported polysomnography outcomes, without statistically significant improvement. All studies reported non‐polysomnography outcomes; 7 identified statistically significant improvements demonstrating drug treatment superiority over placebo.

Conclusion

The existing evidence supports the use of proton pump inhibitors as a treatment for esophageal reflux disease to improve quality‐of‐life sleep disturbance–related outcomes. Given the wide variability in proton pump inhibitor treatments and sleep disturbance–related outcomes reported, however, study‐specific results cannot be directly compared or aggregated. This conclusion appears robust not only for 7 of 8 studies included but also for the 3 highest quality studies.
Does Mannose‐Binding Lectin Have a Role in Adult Turkish Patients with Nasal Polyposis?
Authors: Eren Erdem , Midilli Raşit , Karaca Emin , Onay Hüseyin , Karcı Bülent , Özkınay Cihangir
Published: February 2012

Objective

Mannose‐binding lectin is an important component of innate immunity; it initiates the lectin pathway of complement activation critical for innate immunity. Failure of local innate defenses may result in defective responses that lead to the persistent carriage of microorganisms or ongoing inflammation. This study investigated the role of mannose‐binding lectin levels and the frequency of the 6 functional mannose‐binding lectin polymorphisms in Turkish individuals with nasal polyposis.

Study Design

A case‐control study.

Setting

University hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Fifty‐one patients with nasal polyposis and 53 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum mannose‐binding lectin levels were obtained by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using the mannose‐binding lectin oligomer ELISA kit. Mannose‐binding lectin 2 genotyping was performed by isolating the genomic DNA from leukocytes.

Results

Mean mannose‐binding lectin levels were 1693.2 and 1887.8 in the patient and control group, respectively. Although mannose‐binding lectin levels were lower in the patient group, the difference was not statistically significant (P >. 05). No overall association was observed between the mannose‐binding lectin genotype and susceptibility to nasal polyposis (95% confidence interval = 0.716–4.389, odds ratio = 1.773). The mutant allele frequencies of the 3 structural polymorphisms did not differ significantly between the nasal polyposis patients and the controls (P =. 659).

Conclusions

Mannose‐binding lectins are not involved in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis in adult Turkish patients, but additional research is needed for further comment.
The Value of Routine pH Monitoring in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Authors: Friedman Michael , Hamilton Craig , Samuelson Christian G. , Kelley Kanwar , Taylor Renwick , Darling Robert , Taylor David , Fisher Michelle , Maley Alexander
Published: February 2012

Objective

To assess the need for pH testing in diagnosing laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

On the basis of symptoms and/or abnormal endoscopic findings, more than 500 patients underwent 24‐hour pharyngeal pH testing at a single center (using the Dx‐pH probe) between January 2009 and June 2011. A total of 163 patients not on proton‐pump inhibitors at the time of study and with complete data available for analysis (pH results, body mass index, smoking status, pretest reflux symptom index) were divided into 2 groups by positive (n = 70) and negative (n = 93) Ryan Score. The Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) was compared between groups and assessed overall against Ryan Score parameters at different pH thresholds. The diagnostic utility of an RSI ≥ 13 for prediction of Ryan Score was assessed.

Results

No significant difference in RSI was seen between Ryan‐positive (17.50 ± 11.47) and Ryan‐negative (14.95 ± 11.43) patients (P =. 161). Overall, RSI correlated poorly with percentage time spent below pH thresholds 6.5, 6.0, 5.5, and 5.0 and upright and supine Ryan parameters at these thresholds (as determined by linear regression analysis). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of RSI ≥ 13 for Ryan positivity were 55.7%, 47.3%, 44.3%, and 58.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings show that in our population of otolaryngology patients, the diagnosis of LPR cannot be reliably made on the basis of symptoms alone. Diagnosis, and in particular treatment decisions, should ideally be made on the basis of a combination of symptoms, signs, and confirmatory testing.
Is It Valid to Calculate the 3‐Kilohertz Threshold by Averaging 2 and 4 Kilohertz?
Authors: Gurgel Richard K. , Popelka Gerald R. , Oghalai John S. , Blevins Nikolas H. , Chang Kay W. , Jackler Robert K.
Published: February 2012

Many guidelines for reporting hearing results use the threshold at 3 kilohertz (kHz), a frequency not measured routinely. This study assessed the validity of estimating the missing 3‐kHz threshold by averaging the measured thresholds at 2 and 4 kHz. The estimated threshold was compared to the measured threshold at 3 kHz individually and when used in the pure‐tone average (PTA) of 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 kHz in audiometric data from 2170 patients. The difference between the estimated and measured thresholds for 3 kHz was within ±5 dB in 72% of audiograms, ±10 dB in 91%, and within ±20 dB in 99% (correlation coefficient r = 0.965). The difference between the PTA threshold using the estimated threshold compared with using the measured threshold at 3 kHz was within ±5 dB in 99% of audiograms (r = 0.997). The estimated threshold accurately approximates the measured threshold at 3 kHz, especially when incorporated into the PTA.
Coping and Quality of Life after Total Laryngectomy
Authors: Eadie Tanya L. , Bowker Brianne C.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To investigate how ways of coping and traditional factors (age, sex, time postlaryngectomy, stage of disease, radiation, alaryngeal speech method) predict global quality of life, head and neck cancer–specific quality of life, and voice‐related quality‐of‐life outcomes after total laryngectomy.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

University‐based laboratory and speech clinic.

Subjects and Methods

Sixty‐seven individuals who underwent total laryngectomy secondary to cancer were recruited from support groups and professional contacts. Individuals were at minimum 9 months postlaryngectomy. All outcomes were patient reported and included demographic data as well as a number of validated questionnaires: the Ways of Coping–Cancer Version (WOC‐CV) scale, the Voice‐Related Quality of Life (V‐RQOL) scale, and the University of Washington Quality of Life (UW‐QOL) composite and global QOL scores.

Results

Fifty‐three individuals identified a stressful aspect of their laryngectomy. As a set, traditional variables (age, time postlaryngectomy, alaryngeal speech method) accounted for only 5% of global QOL scores but between 25% and 30% of the variance of composite UW‐QOL and V‐RQOL scores. Time postlaryngectomy was the strongest traditional predictor. Ways of coping accounted for 23% to 32% of all QOL scores. Avoidant coping strategies (both cognitive and behavioral escape) were among the strongest predictors of poorer QOL. When traditional variables were combined with ways of coping, they together accounted for 26% to 46% of the variance of QOL outcomes.

Conclusion

Coping is important to consider when evaluating postlaryngectomy outcomes, above and beyond traditionally investigated factors.
Atypical Mycobacterium Detection in Refractory Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Solyar Alla , Lee Annie S. , Przybyszewski Barbara , Lanza Donald C.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

Atypical mycobacterium (AM) involvement in refractory chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is sought by some surgeons with customary acid‐fast bacilli cultures (AFBC) in the operating room (OR). We evaluate our experience with AM in CRS by describing (1) associated risk factors, (2) species identified, and (3) frequency of positive cultures in clinic versus OR.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary rhinology practice.

Subjects and Methods

AFBC taken between 2005 and 2011 were identified from a microbiology laboratory database. Charts were reviewed for gender, age, medical history, risk factors for AM, pathogen types, and treatments, with statistical comparison using Pearson χ2. The benefit of “targeted AFBC” for cases with high clinical suspicion was compared with “customary AFBC” in the OR.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients were identified with AM, of which 10 had one or more risk factors for AM including foreign body (n = 4), non‐HIV immune dysfunction (n = 4), and previous chemoradiation (n = 4). Six different AM species were identified: most frequently Mycobacterium abscessus (57.1%), followed by Mycobacterium avium‐intracellulare complex (14.3%) and Mycobacterium chelonae (14.3%). “Targeted AFBC” from the outpatient setting were positive in 10 of 190 (5.3%) patients, whereas 10 of 373 (2.6%) patients of “customary AFBC” in the OR were positive (P =. 12). Macrolide therapy was employed in 23 of 37 (62%) patients with AM‐associated CRS but was not prescribed in patients with positive “customary AFBC” alone.

Conclusion

AM‐associated CRS is an uncommon condition that can occur in the absence of foreign body or overtly altered innate/adaptive immunity. Indications and efficacy of macrolide therapy, as well as the potential relationships between existence of AM in tap water, AM biofilms, and frequent use of nasal irrigations warrant further investigation in refractory CRS.
A prospective, multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of onabotulinumtoxinA to treat plantarflexor/invertor overactivity after stroke
Authors: Dunne John Walter , Gracies Jean-Michel , Hayes Michael , Zeman Brian , Singer Barbara Jennifer ,   on behalf of the Multicentre Study Group
Published: February 2012

Objective:

To examine the safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) for plantarflexor overactivity following stroke.

Design:

Double-blind randomized controlled trial, open-label extension phase.

Setting:

Neurology rehabilitation facilities.

Subjects:

Eighty-five subjects with lower limb hypertonia received 200 U ( n = 28) or 300 U ( n = 28) of onabotulinumtoxinA or saline ( n = 29) injection.

Primary measures:

Plantarflexor Ashworth scores at 12 weeks post injection and adverse events. Secondary measures: self-reported spasm frequency and pain, physician rating of hypertonia severity, gait quality and active dorsiflexion.

Results:

Differences were not seen between onabotulinumtoxinA groups; hence data were pooled. Incidence of adverse events was not different between groups ( P = 0.61). Reduction in hypertonia was not different between groups at 12 weeks ( P = 0.53); however for subjects with Ashworth scores of >3 at baseline, 14/31 in the onabotulinumtoxinA group demonstrated a reduction of >1 grade versus 1/17 receiving placebo injection ( P = 0.01). Overall, onabotulinumtoxinA-injected subjects demonstrated significantly greater improvement in spasm frequency (22/54 versus 4/29, P = 0.01), pain reduction (8/54 versus 1/29, P = 0.02), active dorsiflexion (8/54 versus 1/29 P = 0.03) and gait quality (17/54 versus 6/29, P = 0.02) than controls. In the open-label phase, a second onabotulinumtoxinA injection was associated with greater hypertonia reduction ( P = 0.005) and gait quality ( P = 0.002) compared with single injection.

Conclusions:

OnabotulinumtoxinA injection for ankle flexor overactivity after stroke was safe and well tolerated but did not alter local spasticity at 12 weeks; it did reduce spasms and improve gait quality. There were no detectable differences between higher and lower doses. A second injection may be associated with greater change.
Functional orthosis in shoulder joint subluxation after ischaemic brain stroke to avoid post-hemiplegic shoulder–hand syndrome: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hartwig Maik , Gelbrich Götz , Griewing Bernd
Published: February 2012

Objective:

To examine whether the use of a shoulder joint functional orthosis over four weeks can mitigate the development or progression of the shoulder–hand syndrome in patients with shoulder joint subluxation after stroke.

Design:

Two-armed randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Rehabilitation unit of a neurological hospital, single centre.

Subjects:

Forty-one patients with caudal subluxation of the glenohumeral joint and hemiparesis of the upper extremity after ischaemic brain stroke.

Interventions:

Support by functional orthosis Neuro-Lux (Sporlastic, Nürtingen, Germany) on top of usual care according to current guidelines (experimental, n = 20) versus usual care alone (control, n = 21).

Main measures:

Weekly shoulder–hand syndrome scores (severity of clinical symptoms ranging from 0 to 14), discomfort caused by the orthosis, and its usage rate. The primary outcome was the average shoulder–hand syndrome score on days 14, 21 and 28, adjusted for the baseline shoulder–hand syndrome score.

Results:

The adjusted mean shoulder–hand syndrome score was lower by 3.1 in the intervention compared to the control subjects (95% confidence interval 1.9 to 4.3, P < 0.0001). Marginal or no discomfort from treatment with the orthosis was reported in 15 patients (75%), and only a single patient (5%) felt severe discomfort during the entire treatment. Use of the orthosis during the prescribed time was 89%.

Conclusions:

The orthosis examined in this trial has been successfully shown to reduce and prevent the development of clinical symptoms of shoulder–hand syndrome. Timing and duration of application of the orthosis as well as its combination with other therapeutic measures should be investigated in future clinical trials.
Differential effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation and neurodevelopmental treatment/Bobath on gait patterns in adults with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Soo Ji , Kwak Eunmi E , Park Eun Sook , Cho Sung-Rae
Published: February 2012

Objectives:

To investigate the effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) on gait patterns in comparison with changes after neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT/Bobath) in adults with cerebral palsy.

Design:

A repeated-measures analysis between the pretreatment and posttreatment tests and a comparison study between groups.

Setting:

Human gait analysis laboratory.

Subjects:

Twenty-eight cerebral palsy patients with bilateral spasticity participated in this study. The subjects were randomly allocated to either neurodevelopmental treatment ( n = 13) or rhythmic auditory stimulation ( n = 15).

Interventions:

Gait training with rhythmic auditory stimulation or neurodevelopmental treatment was performed three sessions per week for three weeks. Temporal and kinematic data were analysed before and after the intervention. Rhythmic auditory stimulation was provided using a combination of a metronome beat set to the individual’s cadence and rhythmic cueing from a live keyboard, while neurodevelopmental treatment was implemented following the traditional method.

Main measures:

Temporal data, kinematic parameters and gait deviation index as a measure of overall gait pathology were assessed.

Results:

Temporal gait measures revealed that rhythmic auditory stimulation significantly increased cadence, walking velocity, stride length, and step length ( P < 0.05). Kinematic data demonstrated that anterior tilt of the pelvis and hip flexion during a gait cycle was significantly ameliorated after rhythmic auditory stimulation ( P < 0.05). Gait deviation index also showed modest improvement in cerebral palsy patients treated with rhythmic auditory stimulation ( P < 0.05). However, neurodevelopmental treatment showed that internal and external rotations of hip joints were significantly improved, whereas rhythmic auditory stimulation showed aggravated maximal internal rotation in the transverse plane ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Gait training with rhythmic auditory stimulation or neurodevelopmental treatment elicited differential effects on gait patterns in adults with cerebral palsy.
Nonsuppurative Encephalitis in a Dog
Authors: Schöniger S. , Klose K. , Werner H. , Schwarz B.-A. , Müller T. , Schoon H.-A.
Published: February 2012

A 4-year-old male German Hunting Terrier presented with tremor, dyspnea, trismus, spasms of the musculature of the larynx and pharynx, and hypothermia and subsequently died despite intensive clinical care. Prior clinical signs included vomitus and diarrhea. Microscopic examination of the brain revealed a multifocal nonsuppurative brain stem encephalitis; a few intralesional neurons contained intranuclear inclusions. By immunohistochemistry, Aujeszky disease virus (Suid herpesvirus 1) antigen was detected in neurons in the brain and in ganglion cells of the trigeminal ganglia. Viral culture of brain tissue confirmed the presence of Aujeszky disease virus. Histopathologic findings in the brain with the identification of Aujeszky disease virus by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction are consistent with Aujeszky disease virus–induced encephalitis. Sequencing revealed a 100% homology of the isolated Aujeszky disease virus with Aujeszky disease virus isolates of wild boar from Eastern Germany.
Pneumocystis carinii Causes a Distinctive Interstitial Pneumonia in Immunocompetent Laboratory Rats That Had Been Attributed to “Rat Respiratory Virus”
Authors: Henderson K. S. , Dole V. , Parker N. J. , Momtsios P. , Banu L. , Brouillette R. , Simon M. A. , Albers T. M. , Pritchett-Corning K. R. , Clifford C. B. , Shek W. R.
Published: February 2012

A prevalent and distinctive infectious interstitial pneumonia (IIP) of immunocompetent laboratory rats was suspected to be caused by a putative virus, termed rat respiratory virus, but this was never substantiated. To study this disease, 2 isolators were independently populated with rats from colonies with endemic disease, which was perpetuated by the regular addition of naive rats. After Pneumocystis was demonstrated by histopathology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the lungs of rats from both isolators and an earlier bedding transmission study, the relationship between Pneumocystis and IIP was explored further by analyzing specimens from 3 contact transmission experiments, diagnostic submissions, and barrier room breeding colonies, including 1 with and 49 without IIP. Quantitative (q) PCR and immunofluorescence assay only detected Pneumocystis infection and serum antibodies in rats from experiments or colonies in which IIP was diagnosed by histopathology. In immunocompetent hosts, the Pneumocystis concentration in lungs corresponded to the severity and prevalence of IIP; seroconversion occurred when IIP developed and was followed by the concurrent clearance of Pneumocystis from lungs and resolution of disease. Experimentally infected immunodeficient RNU rats, by contrast, did not seroconvert to Pneumocystis or recover from infection. qPCR found Pneumocystis at significantly higher concentrations and much more often in lungs than in bronchial and nasal washes and failed to detect Pneumocystis in oral swabs. The sequences of a mitochondrial ribosomal large-subunit gene region for Pneumocystis from 11 distinct IIP sources were all identical to that of P. carinii. These data provide substantial evidence that P. carinii causes IIP in immunocompetent rats.
Cutaneous Lymphomas in European Pet Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Ritter J. M. , Bomhard W. von , Wise A. G. , Maes R. K. , Kiupel M.
Published: February 2012

Cutaneous lymphoma is a common skin neoplasm of pet rabbits in Europe but is rarely reported in pet rabbits in North America. These neoplasms have not been previously characterized, nor has the cause for the apparent predilection for cutaneous lymphoma in European pet rabbits compared with North American pet rabbits been investigated. In this retrospective study, the authors morphologically and immunohistochemically characterized 25 cutaneous lymphomas in European pet rabbits according to the World Health Organization classification. Tumors were classified as diffuse large B cell lymphomas, with 14 lymphomas exhibiting a centroblastic/centrocytic subtype and 11 tumors exhibiting a T cell–rich B cell subtype. To investigate a potential viral etiology of these lymphomas, 3 diffuse large B cell and 3 T cell–rich B cell lymphomas were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction for retroviral and herpesviral genes. Neither virus was detected. In contrast to other domestic animals, cutaneous lymphomas in European pet rabbits were highly pleomorphic and frequently contained multinucleated giant cells. Unexpectedly, the second most common subtype was T cell–rich B cell lymphoma, a subtype that is rare in species other than horses. Based on a limited number of samples, there was no support for a viral etiology that would explain the higher incidence of lymphoma in European pet rabbits compared with American pet rabbits. Further investigation into genetic and extrinsic factors associated with the development of these tumors is warranted.
Financialization and Global Imbalances
Authors: Lucarelli Dr Bill
Published: February 2012

The concept of “financialization” has informed recent analyses of the contemporary dynamics of monopoly capitalism. In the wake of the global financial crisis in 2007-08, the strategic role of finance and its capacity to destabilize the real economy and push it to the brink of economic depression has rekindled debates over the historical causes and institutional forms which have characterized this phase of capitalist evolution. In other words, to what extent have the neoliberal policies pursued by most OECD countries over the past 30 years contributed to the emergence of this finance-led regime of accumulation? More specifically, what are the implications of the extraordinary build-up of private debt, which has financed private consumption and fuelled successive asset price and stock market euphoric bubbles over this period? At the same time, the problem of growing global imbalances between the surplus countries/regions and the deficit countries/regions has emerged as a major source of financial instability. It will be proposed that the breakdown of the mechanisms, which have supported the dynamics of financialization, have set the stage for the current global capitalist crisis.

JEL codes: B5, B14, B16, B23
Soft Budget Constraints and Predatory States
Authors: Vahabi Mehrdad
Published: February 2012

The concept of the soft budget constraint (SBC) was initially formulated by economist Janos Kornai in the context of socialist economies. I argue that the SBC can be regarded as the political economy of a predatory state in both the so-called socialist and capitalist economies. The hard budget constraint (HBC) is not related to an ideal competitive market economy but to a household level budget constraint, particularly by salaried members of the population in both types of economies.

JEL codes: D20, E20, P2, P5
Viability of human umbilical cord–derived mesenchymal stem cells in G-rich and M-rich alginates
Authors: Kandalam Umadevi , Cabel Anamaria I , Omidian Hossein , Stelnicki Eric J
Published: February 2012

In this study, the effect of pharmaceutical-grade alginates on the cell viability of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord was examined and their use in tissue engineering applications was evaluated. The effects of the ratio of the copolymer building blocks (guluronic and mannuronic acids) and their interactions with divalent calcium, the purity of alginates (proteins and polyphenol content), and gelation factors (calcium concentration and sol content) were examined. The high guluronic acid content in the alginates improved the viability of the human mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord and supported cell growth significantly. It was confirmed that the sol fraction of alginate reduced cell viability. Cells in the presence of alginate beads cross-linked with 50 and 100 mM calcium chloride showed maximum viability; the protein and polyphenol content of the alginates did not affect the viability of the human mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord, while the monomer ratio did have an obvious effect.
The Effects of a “Tell-Show-Try-Apply” Professional Development Package on Teachers of Students With Severe Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Browder Diane M. , Jimenez Bree Ann , Mims Pamela J. , Knight Victoria F. , Spooner Fred , Lee Angel , Flowers Claudia
Published: February 2012

The What Works Clearinghouse guidelines for high-quality professional development were used to develop a Tell, Show, Try, and Apply (TSTA) method of training. This method was used to train teachers to align instruction to grade-level content for students with severe developmental disabilities. A total of 193 teachers of students who participate in alternate assessment based on alternate achievement standards from three states participated in the first 2 days of training. A subset of 37 teachers participated in a 3rd day of training and submitted products from classroom applications. The impact of the TSTA training was evaluated to determine its effect on teachers’ instructional fidelity across three content areas (e.g., English language arts [ELA], mathematics, science) with their own students. In addition, generalization to new academic content aligned to grade-aligned standards developed by the teachers was taken. Results indicated that the professional development was effective not only in increasing teachers’ knowledge of alignment but also grade-aligned instruction with generalization across content. Future research questions and practical application also are discussed.
Current Juvenile Corrections Professional Development Practices and Future Directions
Authors: Gagnon Joseph C. , Houchins David E. , Murphy Kristin M.
Published: February 2012

Personnel in juvenile corrections (JC) work with students who have challenging academic, behavioral, and mental health needs. The complexity of the JC setting requires personnel to be highly skilled in effective practices to meet the demands of their job. Unfortunately, juvenile correctional personnel are neglected as an important link in the school-to-prison pipeline that can be used to redirect students away from further or repeated involvement in the court system. In this article, our purpose is to provide readers with information on the professional development (PD) needs of JC personnel. Student, teacher, and facility contextual considerations in JC are described. Then, specific JC PD knowledge, skills, and dispositions associated with student academic, behavior, and mental health needs are detailed. Finally, resources and future directions are offered.
A Faculty-Led Mock Residency Interview Exercise for Fourth-Year Doctor of Pharmacy Students
Authors: Koenigsfeld Carrie F. , Wall Geoffrey C. , Miesner Andrew R. , Schmidt Ginelle , Haack Sally L. , Eastman Darla K. , Grady Sarah , Fornoff Anisa
Published: February 2012

Purpose: To determine whether a faculty-led mock-interview activity enhanced pharmacy student preparation for the residency interview process and increased match rates. Methods: Twenty-eight doctor of pharmacy students volunteered for a 40-minute mock-interview session with 2-person faculty teams. A standard roster of 12 interview questions was derived from published literature and the faculty members’ experience. Feedback on the student’s interview performance was provided verbally during the session. Following the interview, students were given a 2-part survey instrument. The first part of the survey was administered immediately following the mock-interview session and the second part was administered after the standard date for residency program results (known as “Match Day”). Participant match rates were compared to American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) national rates. Results: 82.5% (23 of 27) of students in the mock-interview group matched a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) program. Compared to national rates (61.9%), more students in our surveyed mock-interview group matched a PGY1 residency ( P = .015; odds ratio [OR] 3.546, 95% CI 1.161-12.116). Conclusions: Higher match rates were seen in the students completing the mock residency interview compared to ASHP national rates. In general, students completing the mock interview found the process helpful and felt better prepared for their residency interviews.