bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcription factors and CD4 T cells seeking identity: masters, minions, setters and spikers
Authors: Vahedi Golnaz , Kanno Yuka , Sartorelli Vittorio , O'Shea John J.
Published: April 2013

Naive T cells differentiate and become distinct subsets in response to changes in the cytokine milieu. Such specialization arises through a complex and dynamic utilization of cis‐regulatory enhancer elements. In this brief essay, we review recent findings on the relative contributions of sensors of the cytokine milieu, especially the signal transducer and activator of transcription family transcription factors, ‘master regulators’, and other transcription factors in the enhancer architecture of T cells. These findings provide new insights into how signal transduction impinges upon the genome.
Endoscopic papillary balloon dilation for a 7‐year‐old girl with choledocholithiasis
Authors: Sogo Tsuyoshi , Kondo Takeo , Tsunoda Tomoyuki , Murayama Akitoshi , Komatsu Haruki , Inui Ayano , Fujisawa Tomoo
Published: April 2013

A 7‐year‐old girl was referred to our hospital for severe abdominal pain and elevated serum levels of amylase and aminotransferase. Radiological examinations revealed choledocholithiasis. EPBD was performed under intravenous anesthesia using midazolam and ketamine chloride. After fluoroscopic confirmation of a bile duct stone, a dilation balloon (30 mm‐long, 8 mm‐diameter) was passed over the guidewire and placed across the papilla. The balloon was gradually inflated until the notch created by the papillary sphincter disappeared. At 4 atm, the notch disappeared and the pressure was maintained for 15 s. Stone extraction was performed by using a retrieval balloon catheter. Abdominal pain disappeared immediately after EPBD, and she resumed oral intake 2 days after EPBD. In conclusion, EPBD may be a safe and effective technique for the treatment of choledocholithiasis in pediatric patients. EPDB should be selected as a treatment for pediatric choledocholithiasis in view of its advantages of preserving papillary function.
Congenital chylothorax and pulmonary hypertension complicated with heart failure and hepatopathy
Authors: Oh Jin Hee , Lee Guisera , Lee Jung Hyun
Published: April 2013

Respiratory difficulty resulting from congenital chylothorax is usually relieved by postnatal thoracentesis, closed chest drainage, and oxygen therapy. However, early occurrence of congenital chylothorax or accumulation of a large amount of chylous fluid sometimes leads to pulmonary hypoplasia or persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, which requires further customized mechanical ventilatory support. In these cases, conventional mechanical ventilation is primarily used during initial treatment and is later replaced by high‐frequency ventilation, but the advantages of inhaled nitric oxide treatment have rarely been described. This case suggests the benefits of inhaled nitric oxide in patients with congenital chylothorax, even when mechanical ventilation cannot improve respiratory distress because of severe pulmonary hypertension of the newborn leading to right cardiac dysfunction and possibly cholestasis.
Rare case of an abdominal mass presenting as acute abdomen: Torsion of the vermiform appendix
Authors: Kilincaslan Huseyin , Gedik Ahmet Hakan , Bilici Mustafa , Cakir Secil
Published: April 2013

Torsion of the vermiform appendix is a rarely observed acute abdominal emergency. The clinical manifestations are similar to acute appendicitis. It should be included in the differential diagnosis if a patient presents with intermittent abdominal pain and an acute abdominal emergency. Here, we describe a 4‐year‐old male patient with a mass located in the right lower abdominal quadrant, whose clinical findings were consistent with an acute abdomen. The gangrenous appendix was found in the pelvic cavity and its stump was twisted clockwise. A 1.5‐cm fecalith was detected in the appendix lumen and appendectomy was performed.
Nano‐Hydroxyapatite Improves the Properties of β‐tricalcium Phosphate Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Shuai Cijun , Feng Pei , Nie Yi , Hu Huanglong , Liu Jinglin , Peng Shuping
Published: April 2013

β‐Tricalcium phosphates have been widely used as biomaterials for bone substitutes; however, the poor mechanical properties limit the application in bearing loading bones. In this study, nano‐hydroxyapatite has been introduced to improve the mechanical properties for porous bioceramic scaffolds. Nanocomposites containing 0–10 wt% needle‐like nano‐hydroxyapatite were prepared for investigation. It has been found that needle‐like nano‐hydroxyapatite improves the toughness, hardness, and compressive strength of the porous β‐tricalcium phosphates scaffolds, as well as the microstructure properties. The study provides a reference for the development of safe, excellent bone scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
The Muslim Settlement of Late Ottoman and Mandatory Palestine: Comparison with Jewish Settlement Patterns
Authors: Frantzman Seth J. , Kark Ruth
Published: April 2013

In the late Ottoman and Mandatory periods, Palestine's rural landscape underwent a great transformation. This study examines how the Muslim population expanded beyond its traditional inhabitation in the highlands and settled the fluid inventory of marginal lands in the coastal plains and unpopulated valleys of Palestine. In settling these marginal landscapes their settlement dovetailed with Jewish settlement patterns. While most studies have emphasized the competitive aspect of this process, examining Zionist and Arab national claims, this research points to a different aspect of this new settlement—mainly how much the Jewish and Muslim settlement patterns mirrored one another and how they were part of similar physical processes and complemented one another. Relying on censuses, aerial photographs, and period maps, as well as other archival sources, this is the first systematic research to examine the full extent of new Muslim settlements in Palestine in the late Ottoman and Mandatory periods, and to draw parallels between this phenomenon and the settlement endeavors of the Zionists.
Efficacy of the HealthMatters Program Train‐the‐Trainer Model
Authors: Marks Beth , Sisirak Jasmina , Chang Yen‐Ching
Published: April 2013

Background

This study examines the efficacy of a staff‐led, health promotion intervention entitled HealthMatters Program: Train‐the‐Trainer Model to improve health among adults with intellectual disabilities. While data support the benefits of health promotion for adults with intellectual disabilities in controlled settings, little research documents strategies to improve health and health behaviours in settings in which people work and live.

Methods

Thirty‐four staff in community‐based organizations (CBOs) participated in an 8‐h training to start a 12‐week health promotion programme for clients with intellectual disabilities. Participants with intellectual disabilities (n = 67; aged 30 and older) were randomized into an intervention (12‐week exercise and health education programme) or control group.

Results

Intervention group showed significant improvements in health status, knowledge, self‐efficacy, and fitness.

Conclusion

Results support the efficacy of a HealthMatters Program in CBOs to improve health among adults with intellectual disabilities. A need exists for CBOs to include health promotion in their mission and vision statement and job descriptions.
Shared Decision‐Making in the Selection of Outpatient Analgesics for Older Individuals in the Emergency Department
Authors: Isaacs Cameron G. , Kistler Christine , Hunold Katherine M. , Pereira Greg F. , Buchbinder Mara , Weaver Mark A. , McLean Samuel A. , Platts‐Mills Timothy F.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To assess the relationship between older adults' perceptions of shared decision‐making in the selection of an analgesic to take at home for acute musculoskeletal pain and (1) patient satisfaction with the analgesic and (2) changes in pain scores at 1 week.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Single academic emergency department.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older with acute musculoskeletal pain.

Measurements

Two components of shared decision‐making were assessed: information provided to the patient about the medication choice and patient participation in the selection of the analgesic. Optimal satisfaction with the analgesic was defined as being “a lot” satisfied. Pain scores were assessed in the ED and at 1 week using a 0‐to‐10 scale.

Results

Of 159 individuals reached by telephone, 111 met all eligibility criteria and completed the survey. Fifty‐two percent of participants reported receiving information about pain medication options, and 31% reported participating in analgesic selection. Participants who received information were more likely to report optimal satisfaction with the pain medication than those who did not (67% vs 34%; P < .001). Participants who participated in the decision were also more likely to report optimal satisfaction with the analgesic (71% vs 43%; P = .008) and had a greater average decrease in pain score (4.1 vs 2.9; P = .05). After adjusting for measured confounders, participants who reported receiving information remained more likely to report optimal satisfaction with the analgesic (63% vs 38%; P = .04).

Conclusion

Shared decision‐making in analgesic selection for older adults with acute musculoskeletal pain may improve outcomes.
Tooth Loss and Mortality in Elderly Japanese Adults: Effect of Oral Care
Authors: Hayasaka Kazuki , Tomata Yasutake , Aida Jun , Watanabe Takashi , Kakizaki Masako , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To assess whether oral care (tooth brushing, regular dental visits, and use of dentures) affects mortality in elderly individuals with tooth loss.

Design

A 4‐year prospective cohort study.

Setting

Ohsaki City, Japan.

Participants

Twenty‐one thousand seven hundred thirty community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 and older.

Measurements

In a baseline survey in 2006, data were collected on number of remaining teeth and oral care status as measures of dental health. Data were also collected on age, sex, education level, smoking, alcohol drinking, time spent walking daily, medical history, psychological distress, and energy and protein intake as covariates. During the 4‐year follow‐up between 2006 and 2010, information on mortality was obtained from Ohsaki City government.

Results

The multivariate‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards model showed an inverse dose‐response relationship between number of remaining teeth and mortality (P for trend <.001). In participants with 0 to 19 teeth, practicing oral care was inversely associated with mortality. The multivariate hazard ratio for mortality in participants who practiced all three types of oral care was 0.54 (95% confidence interval = 0.45–0.64), compared with participants who practiced none of the three.

Conclusion

Tooth brushing, regular dental visits, and use of dentures are inversely associated with mortality in elderly individuals with tooth loss.
Measuring absolute nanoparticle number concentrations from particle count time series
Authors: RÖDING M. , DESCHOUT H. , BRAECKMANS K. , RUDEMO M.
Published: April 2013

Single‐particle microscopy is important for characterization of nanoparticulate matter for which accurate concentration measurements are crucial. We introduce a method for estimating absolute number concentrations in nanoparticle dispersions based on a fluctuating time series of particle counts, known as a Smoluchowski process. Thus, unambiguous tracking of particles is not required and identification of single particles is sufficient. However, the diffusion coefficient of the particles must be estimated separately. The proposed method does not require precalibration of the detection region volume, as this can be estimated directly from the observations. We evaluate the method in a simulation study and on experimental data from a series of dilutions of 0.2‐ and 0.5‐μm polymer nanospheres in water, obtaining very good agreement with reference values.
Long‐Term Clinical Follow‐Up after Drug‐Eluting Stent Implantation for Bare Metal In‐Stent Restenosis
Authors: BERTA BALAZS , RUZSA ZOLTAN , BARCZI GYORGY , BECKER DAVID , GELLER LASZLO , JAMBRIK ZOLTAN , MOLNAR LEVENTE , SZABO GYORGY , MERKELY BELA
Published: April 2013

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation in the treatment of diffuse bare metal stent (BMS) restenosis as compared to the treatment of de novo coronary lesions in high restenosis risk patient population.

Background

To date limited long‐term data are available about the treatment of BMS restenosis with DES.

Methods

Five hundred and fourteen consecutive patients who underwent DES implantation between January 2003 and October 2006 at our institute were studied: 201 patients received DES for treatment of BMS restenosis and 313 patients received DES for high restenosis risk de novo lesions. Outcomes were calculated using propensity score adjustment. Mean follow‐up length was 45.6 ± 21.5 months.

Results

The rates of acute coronary syndrome, three‐vessel disease, and diabetes were high in both restenosis and de novo groups: 44.8% versus 46.3%, 20.9% versus 28.7%, and 34.3% versus 38.9%, respectively. The incidence of ischemia‐driven target lesion revascularization (TLR) yielded similar results in the restenosis group and de novo group at 4 years (10.4% vs 12.4%, P = 0.490). All‐cause mortality was lower in the restenosis group at 4 years (7.4% vs 14.7%, P = 0.032); however, the incidence of definite and probable stent thrombosis did not differ (1.9% vs 1.6%, P = 0.708) between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

DESs are safe in the treatment of diffuse BMS restenosis and the rate of additional TLR is acceptable as compared to the use of DES in de novo lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:271–277)
A status perspective on the consequences of work group diversity
Authors: van Dijk Hans , van Engen Marloes L.
Published: April 2013

In accounting for the positive and negative consequences of work group diversity, researchers have generally relied on the information/decision‐making (i.e., diversity as variety) and the social categorization (i.e., diversity as separation) perspective, respectively. In this conceptual paper we argue that there is a need to integrate status‐related processes (i.e., diversity as disparity) as key to understanding the outcomes of work group diversity. Based on expectation states theory, we argue that status differences between group members automatically emerge when group members differ in their characteristics and/or associated (informational) resources. These within‐group status differences lead to the formation of a status configuration, an informal social order that serves a coordination function. We propose that the effect of a status configuration on group performance depends on the interplay between the veridicality, the legitimacy and the stability of a status configuration. We discuss how our propositions can be tested and how our status perspective relates to the information/decision‐making and the social categorization perspective. We close with a discussion on the implications of our status perspective for practitioners.

Practitioner Points

In diverse groups, group members tend to attribute competence (i.e., status) based on the differences between group members.

These perceived status differences in the group serve a tacit coordination function, informing group members on who is the (potentially) right person for a job.

Status differences result in detrimental performance of the group if the status that is attributed is not based on actual task competence, but enhances group performance when status aligns with competence.

When group members feel that their status in the group is lower than it ought to be, this has a negative impact on their commitment and functioning.
Changing things up in recruitment: Effects of a ‘strange’ recruitment medium on applicant pool quantity and quality
Authors: Cromheecke Saartje , Van Hoye Greet , Lievens Filip
Published: April 2013

In a field experiment, we investigated the impact of a ‘strange’ recruitment medium on the quantity and quality of the applicant pool. Recruiting through an unusual medium (i.e., postcard) was associated with higher applicant pool quantity, as compared to a more frequently used medium (i.e., e‐mail). With respect to quality, applicants recruited through the strange medium were higher educated. A follow‐up questionnaire confirmed that the media were perceived to differ in strangeness, not in media richness or credibility. These results suggest that ‘changing things up’ in recruitment by employing strange recruitment media can positively affect key recruitment outcomes.

Practitioner points

Employing ‘strange’ recruitment media can enhance the effectiveness of recruitment (i.e., applicant quantity and quality).

‘Changing things up’ in recruitment may help organizations to differentiate themselves from competitors.
Chronic treatment with the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486 inhibits diabetes‐induced enhancement of experimental periodontitis
Authors: Breivik T. , Gundersen Y. , Gjermo P. , Opstad P.‐K.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objective

Chronic hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity and excessive glucocorticoid hormone release have been associated with diabetes, altered immune responses and increased susceptibility to periodontitis. In the present study we tested the impact of streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes on ligature‐induced periodontitis and the effect of subsequent treatment with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist, RU486.

Material and Methods

A single dose of STZ [45 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)] or vehicle was given 10 d before induction of ligature‐induced periodontitis and implantation subcutaneously of a drug pellet containing the GR antagonist, RU486, or a placebo pellet. Periodontitis was assessed when the ligatures had been in place for 21 d. Two hours before decapitation all rats received gram‐negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (150 μg/kg, i.p.) to induce a robust immune and stress response.

Results

Compared with control rats, STZ‐treated rats developed significantly more periodontal bone loss, and RU486 treatment of STZ ‐treated rats significantly inhibited this effect. STZ‐treated rats also showed significantly higher levels of the HPA axis‐derived hormone, corticosterone, as well as of the proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), but lower levels of the anti‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) and transforming growth factor‐1beta (TGF‐1β) after LPS stimulation. GR blockade had no statistically significant effects on these measurements in diabetic rats, but tended to enhance the levels of TNF‐α and TGF‐1β, and reduce the levels of IL‐10 and blood glucose.

Conclusion

In diabetic subjects, excessive GR activation as a result of chronic high levels of glucocorticoid hormones may alter immune‐system responses in a manner that may increase the susceptibility to periodontitis.
A Meta‐Analysis of Supply Chain Integration and Firm Performance
Authors: Leuschner, Rudolf , Rogers Dale S. , Charvet François F.
Published: April 2013

As supply chain activities become more dispersed among customers, suppliers and service providers, there is an increased need for customers and suppliers to work together more closely. Supply chain integration (SCI) has been a highly researched topic during the last 20 years. A meta‐analytic approach is used to provide a quantitative review of the empirical literature in SCI, and examines relevant design and contextual factors. Eighty independent samples across 86 peer‐reviewed journal articles, yielding a total of 17,467 observations, were obtained and analyzed. While general support exists in favor of the positive impact of SCI on firm performance in the literature, this research helps clarify mixed findings that presently exist. Our results indicate that there is a positive and significant correlation between SCI and firm performance. Additional subgroups and moderators are tested and provide nuanced views of the scope and specific dimensions of SCI, firm performance and their relationships.
Percutaneous Nerve Stimulation in Chronic Neuropathic Pain Patients due to Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kopsky David Jos , Ettema Frank Willem Leo , van der Leeden Marike , Dekker Joost , Stolwijk‐Swüste Janneke Marjan
Published: April 2013

Background

The long‐term prognosis for neuropathic pain resolution following spinal cord injury (SCI) is often poor. In many SCI patients, neuropathic pain continues or even worsens over time. Thus, new treatment approaches are needed. We conducted a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and effect of percutaneous (electrical) nerve stimulation (P(E)NS) in SCI patients with chronic neuropathic pain.

Methods

In 18 weeks, 12 P(E)NS treatments were scheduled. Assessment with questionnaires was performed at baseline (T0), after 8 weeks (T8), 18 weeks (T18), and 12 weeks post‐treatment (T30).

Results

From 26 screened patients, 17 were included. In total, 91.2% questionnaires were returned, 2 patients dropped out, and 4.2% of the patients reported minor side effects. Pain scores on the week pain diary measured with the numerical rating scale improved significantly at T8, from 6.5 at baseline to 5.4, and were still significantly improved at T18. Pain reduction of ≥ 30% directly after a session was reported in 64.6% sessions. In total, 6 patients experienced reduction in size of the pain areas at T18 and T30, with a mean reduction of 45.8% at T18 and 45.3% at T30.

Conclusion

P(E)NS is feasible as an intervention in SCI patients and might have a positive effect on pain reduction in a part of this patient group.
From flower to seed: identifying phenological markers and reliable growth functions to model reproductive development in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.)
Authors: CLAVIJO MICHELANGELI JOSE A. , BHAKTA MEHUL , GEZAN SALVADOR A. , BOOTE KENNETH J. , VALLEJOS C EDUARDO
Published: April 2013

The lack of dependable morphological indicators for the onset and end of seed growth has hindered modeling work in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). We have addressed this problem through the use of mathematical growth functions to analyse and identify critical developmental stages, which can be linked to existing developmental indices. We performed this study under greenhouse conditions with anAndean and aMesoamerican genotype of contrasting pod and seed phenotypes, and three selected recombinant inbred lines. Pods from tagged flowers were harvested at regular time intervals for various measurements. Differences in flower production and seed and pod growth trajectories among genotypes were detected via comparisons of parameters of fitted growth functions. Regardless of the genotype, the end of pod elongation marked the beginning of seed growth, which lasted until pods displayed a sharp decline in color, or pod hue angle. These results suggest that the end of pod elongation and the onset of color change are reliable indicators of important developmental transitions in the seed, even for widely differing pod phenotypes. We also provide a set of equations that can be used to model different aspects of reproductive growth and development in the common bean.
Interactions between arbuscular mycorrhizal and non‐mycorrhizal plants: do non‐mycorrhizal species at both extremes of nutrient availability play the same game?
Authors: LAMBERS HANS , TESTE FRANÇOIS P.
Published: April 2013

This article comments on: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi reduce growth and infect roots of the non‐host plant Arabidopsis thaliana
Comparison of outcomes of hand‐assisted laparoscopic to open donor nephrectomy for pediatric recipients
Authors: Baron Pedro W. , Brooks Jaysson , Baldwin D. Duane , Cutler Drew , Kore Arputharaj , Elihu Arvand , de Vera Michael , Sahney Shobha
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study is to compare the outcome of pediatric recipients of kidneys procured using a hand‐assisted laparoscopic (HALDN group) to an open technique (ODN group). Twenty‐eight patients ≤18 yr old (HALDN group) were compared with 17 patients (ODN group). The serum creatinine for HALDN and ODN groups at discharge were 0.93 ± 0.48 and 0.94 ± 0.54 mg/dL (p = 0.917), respectively. The serum creatinine for HALDN and ODN groups at six and 12 months was 1.01 ± 0.44 and 1.11 ± 0.55, and 1.04 ± 0.52 and 1.14 ± 0.46 mg/dL (p = 0.516, p = 0.554), respectively. The eGFR for HALDN and ODN groups at discharge was 108.66 ± 37.23 and 106.1 ± 50.55 mL/min/1.73 m2 (p = 0.845), respectively. The eGFR for HALDN and ODN groups at six and 12 months was 97.77 ± 28.25 and 81.73 ± 27.46, and 94.56 ± 28.3 and 85.74 ± 30.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 (p = 0.085, p = 0.344), respectively. The patient and graft survival for both groups were 100% at 12 months post‐transplant. In conclusion, the short‐term outcome of recipients of kidneys procured via HALDN is comparable to that of kidneys procured via ODN in pediatric patients.
Pediatric acute liver failure: Etiology, outcomes, and the role of serial pediatric end‐stage liver disease scores
Authors: Rajanayagam Jeremy , Coman David , Cartwright David , Lewindon Peter J.
Published: April 2013

To describe etiology, short‐term outcomes and prognostic accuracy of serial PELD scores in PALF. Retrospective analysis of children aged ≤16 yr, admitted with PALF under the QLTS, Brisbane, Australia, between 1991 and 2011. PELD‐MELD scores were ascertained at three time points (i) admission (ii), meeting PALF criteria, and (iii) peak value. Fifty‐four children met criteria for PALF, median age 17 months (1 day–15.6 yr) and median weight 10.2 kg (1.9–57 kg). Etiology was known in 69%: 26% metabolic, 15% infective, 13% drug‐induced, 6% autoimmune, and 9% hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Age <3 months and weight <4.7 kg predicted poor survival in non‐transplanted children. Significant independent predictors of poor outcome (death or LT) were peak bilirubin > 220 μm/L and peak INR > 4. Serial PELD‐MELD scores were higher in the 17 (32%) transplant recipients (mean: [i] 26.8, [ii] 31.8, [iii] 42.6); highest in the 12 (22%) non‐transplanted non‐survivors (mean: [i] 31.6, [ii] 37.2, [iii] 45.7) compared with the 25 (46%) transplant‐free survivors (mean: [i] 25.3, [ii] 26.0, [iii] 30.3). PELD‐MELD thresholds of ≥27 and ≥42 at (ii) meeting PALF criteria and (iii) peak predicted poor outcome (p < 0.001). High peak bilirubin and peak INR predict poor outcome and serial PELD‐MELD is superior to single admission PELD‐MELD score for predicting poor outcome.
Ethnic Differences in the Initiation and Duration of Breast Feeding – Results from the Born in Bradford Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Santorelli Gillian , Petherick Emily , Waiblinger Dagmar , Cabieses Baltica , Fairley Lesley
Published: April 2013

Background

Initiation of breast feeding and duration of any breast feeding are known to differ by ethnic group, but there are limited data on differences in exclusive breast feeding. This study aimed to determine if there are ethnic differences in the initiation and duration of any and exclusive breast feeding.

Methods

Breast‐feeding data were obtained from a subsample of 1365 women recruited to a multi‐ethnic cohort study (Born in Bradford) between August 2008 and March 2009. Poisson regression was used to investigate the impact of socio‐economic, life style and birth factors on ethnic differences in the prevalence of breast feeding.

Results

Compared with white British mothers, initiation of breast feeding was significantly higher in all ethnic groups and this persisted after adjustment for socio‐economic, life style and birth factors [Pakistani: prevalence rate ratio (PRR) = 1.19 (95% confidence interval 1.10, 1.29); Other South Asian: PRR = 1.29 (1.18, 1.42); Other ethnicities: PRR = 1.33 (1.21, 1.46)]. There were no differences in exclusive breast feeding at 4 months [Pakistani: PRR = 0.77 (0.54, 1.09); Other South Asian: PRR = 1.55 (0.99, 2.43); Other ethnicities: PRR = 1.50 (0.88, 2.56)]. Any breast feeding at 4 months was significantly higher in mothers of all non‐white British ethnicities [Pakistani: PRR = 1.27 (1.02, 1.58); Other South Asian: PRR = 1.99 (1.52, 2.62); Other ethnicities: 2.45 (1.86, 3.21)].

Conclusions

Whilst women of ethnic minority groups were significantly more likely to initiate breast feeding and continue any breast feeding for 4 months compared with white British women, the rates of exclusive breast feeding at 4 months were not significantly different once socio‐economic, life style and birth factors were accounted for.
Social Modifications of the Multiple Birth Effect on IQ and Body Size: a Population‐Based Study of Young Adult Males
Authors: Silventoinen Karri , Myrskylä Mikko , Tynelius Per , Yokoyama Yoshie , Rasmussen Finn
Published: April 2013

Background

Twins and triplets fall behind singletons in cognitive and physical development. We analysed whether these differences are modified by family social position.

Methods

IQ, height, body mass index (BMI) and elbow flexion, handgrip and knee extension strength were measured in Swedish men born between 1951 and 1976 during the conscription examination at 17 to 20 years of age. Information from Swedish registers on all siblings and parental socio‐economic position were linked to these measures. Together, the measures were available for 1 140 329 singletons, 19 755 twins and 207 triplets. The data were analysed using regression analyses and fixed‐effect models which compare twins and triplets with their singleton brothers.

Results

Twins and triplets had slightly lower IQ, height, BMI and muscle strength than did singletons both at the population level as well as when compared with their singleton brothers. Although the differences between twins and triplets were small, they were largest in families with lower socio‐economic position. We also found larger differences in IQ among the sons of mothers born before 1940.

Conclusions

Twins and triplets fall slightly behind singletons in cognitive and physical development, even in early adulthood, but twins and triplets show no major differences. These differences are largest in families in a low socio‐economic position. Our results underscore the importance of the postnatal environment in the development of twins and triplets and suggest that their parents, especially those in a low socio‐economic position, need special support.
Constitution, Over Determination and Causal Power
Authors: Garrett Brian Jonathan
Published: April 2013

Kim's exclusion argument threatens to show that irreducible constituted objects are epiphenomenal. Kim's arguments are examined and found to be unconvincing; that a constituted cause requires its constituent to be a cause is not an adequate reason to reject the causation of the constituted object (event or property‐instance). However, I introduce and argue for, the Causal Power Uniqueness Condition (CPUC). I argue that CPUC and the causal closure of the physical, implies that constituted objects or property‐instances are not novel causal powers.
Systematic revision reveals underestimated diversity of the South African endemic fishfly genus Taeniochauliodes Esben‐Petersen (Megaloptera: Corydalidae)
Authors: LIU XINGYUE , PRICE BENJAMIN , HAYASHI FUMIO , DE MOOR FERDINAND , YANG DING
Published: April 2013

Taeniochauliodes is the most common and widely distributed fishfly genus in South Africa, with one historically recognized valid species Taeniochauliodes ochraceopennis Esben‐Petersen. The present systematic revision of Taeniochauliodes has found that this genus consists of at least eight species: T. angustus sp.n., T. attenuatus sp.n., T. barnardi sp.n., T. fuscus sp.n., T. minutus sp.n., and T. natalensis sp.n. Description of all new species and a redescription of T. esbenpeterseni comb.n. & stat.rev. and T. ochraceopennis are made. These species all have relatively narrowly confined distributions. An interspecific phylogeny of Taeniochauliodes is estimated based on adult morphological data. The historical biogeography of this genus is discussed based on the phylogenetic results and the present distribution of each species, suggesting that the origin of Taeniochauliodes likely dates back to the Late Cretaceous. The earliest branch, which separates T. natalensis sp.n. from the remaining South African species, suggests an early vicariance event occurred between KwaZulu‐Natal and more western parts of South Africa. Furthermore, speciation within Taeniochauliodes is hypothesized to be correlated with fragmentation of its forest habitat during the Plio‐Pleistocene.
Disabilities in academic workplaces: experiences of human and physical geographers
Authors: Horton John , Tucker Faith
Published: April 2013

This paper considers the experiences of 75 university‐based human and physical geographers who define themselves as disabled. We explore how diverse disabilities intersect with academic careers, lifestyles and workplaces, focusing on some common disciplinary and institutional spaces of human and physical geography. We identify two self‐selecting groups of geographers who participated in our research. First, we discuss the experiences of those geographers who are active and politicised in relation to their disabilities, and have worked to effect inclusionary change in their institutional and disciplinary spaces. Second, we highlight the less ‘hopeful’ experiences of geographers with mental health conditions that are undisclosed in workplace contexts. We suggest that these data should prompt reflection on the institutional and disciplinary spaces we inhabit and constitute: especially how (to quote one respondent) spaces of academia may be ‘conducive to poor mental health … [i]t is practically the norm to be sleep‐deprived, working until the early hours, behind with deadlines, underpaid, on short contracts, full of caffeine and alcohol'.
A two‐dimensional matrix correction for off‐axis portal dose prediction errors
Authors: Bailey Daniel W. , Kumaraswamy Lalith , Bakhtiari Mohammad , Podgorsak Matthew B.
Published: April 2013

Purpose:

This study presents a follow‐up to a modified calibration procedure for portal dosimetry published by Bailey et al. [“An effective correction algorithm for off‐axis portal dosimetry errors,” Med. Phys. 36, – (2009) 10.1118/1.3187785]. A commercial portal dose prediction system exhibits disagreement of up to 15% (calibrated units) between measured and predicted images as off‐axis distance increases. The previous modified calibration procedure accounts for these off‐axis effects in most regions of the detecting surface, but is limited by the simplistic assumption of radial symmetry.

Methods:

We find that a two‐dimensional (2D) matrix correction, applied to each calibrated image, accounts for off‐axis prediction errors in all regions of the detecting surface, including those still problematic after the radial correction is performed. The correction matrix is calculated by quantitative comparison of predicted and measured images that span the entire detecting surface. The correction matrix was verified for dose‐linearity, and its effectiveness was verified on a number of test fields. The 2D correction was employed to retrospectively examine 22 off‐axis, asymmetric electronic‐compensation breast fields, five intensity‐modulated brain fields (moderate‐high modulation) manipulated for far off‐axis delivery, and 29 intensity‐modulated clinical fields of varying complexity in the central portion of the detecting surface.

Results:

Employing the matrix correction to the off‐axis test fields and clinical fields, predicted vs measured portal dose agreement improves by up to 15%, producing up to 10% better agreement than the radial correction in some areas of the detecting surface. Gamma evaluation analyses (3 mm, 3% global, 10% dose threshold) of predicted vs measured portal dose images demonstrate pass rate improvement of up to 75% with the matrix correction, producing pass rates that are up to 30% higher than those resulting from the radial correction technique alone. As in the 1D correction case, the 2D algorithm leaves the portal dosimetry process virtually unchanged in the central portion of the detector, and thus these correction algorithms are not needed for centrally located fields of moderate size (at least, in the case of 6 MV beam energy).

Conclusion:

The 2D correction improves the portal dosimetry results for those fields for which the 1D correction proves insufficient, especially in the inplane, off‐axis regions of the detector. This 2D correction neglects the relatively smaller discrepancies that may be caused by backscatter from nonuniform machine components downstream from the detecting layer.
Solving for three-dimensional central potentials using numerical matrix methods
Authors: Jugdutt B. A. , Marsiglio F.
Published: April 2013

We present a numerical matrix method to find quantum stationary states and energies for three-dimensional central forces. The method can be used both for familiar, exactly solvable potentials and for those that are not solvable by analytical methods. As examples, we include the Coulomb potential, the finite spherical well, and the Yukawa potential. This method requires much less mathematical expertise than traditional analytical methods, although it does require some familiarity with numerical matrix diagonalization software.
Vibroacoustic response sensitivity due to relative alignment of two anisotropic poro-elastic layers
Authors: Lind Nordgren Eleonora , Göransson Peter , Deü Jean-François , Dazel Olivier
Published: April 2013

The effects of relative alignment of two different types of anisotropic open cell porous materials are investigated in terms of the acoustic response of a multi-layered configuration. Numerical experiments, where gradient based optimization techniques were used, are conducted to find possible extremal values. It is shown that, depending on the degree of anisotropy of the porous material properties, their angular orientations have a significant and frequency dependent influence on the measured response. The results highlight the importance of further advancing the knowledge of anisotropic porous material behavior.
Wide-area assessment of topographical and meteorological effects on sound propagation by time-domain modeling
Authors: Heimann Dietrich
Published: April 2013

Noise mapping with a three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) model over larger areas suffers from its high computational demand. This study shows that an FDTD model in combination with a meteorological model can be used for at least qualitative assessments of topographical and meteorological effects on sound propagation in domains of even some kilometers extension. This is achieved by restricting the acoustical simulations to low frequencies which allow the use of a rather large numerical grid spacing.
p53 as Batman: Using a Movie Plot to Understand Control of the Cell Cycle
Authors: Gadi Nikhita , Foley Sage E. , Nowey Mark , Plopper George E.
Published: April 2013

Analogies with characters and scenes from a Batman movie illustrate how p53 regulates the cellular response to stress.
Nonrandomized Controlled Trial of Artesunate plus Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine with or without Primaquine for Preventing Posttreatment Circulation of Plasmodium falciparum Gametocytes
Authors: Shah Naman K. , Schapira Allan , Juliano Jonathan J. , Srivastava Bina , MacDonald Pia D. M. , Poole Charles , Anvikar Anup , Meshnick Steven R. , Valecha Neena , Mishra Neelima
Published: April 2013

Artemisinin combination therapies eliminate immature
Plasmodium falciparum
gametocytes but not mature gametocytes, which may persist for up to 1 month posttreatment. A single dose of primaquine, which is inexpensive and effective against mature gametocytes, could be added to further reduce the potential for posttreatment parasite transmission. Currently, we have few data regarding the effectiveness or safety of doing so. We collected data from 21 therapeutic efficacy trials of the National Antimalarial Drug Resistance Monitoring System of India conducted during 2009 to 2010, wherein 9 sites used single-dose primaquine (0.75 mg/kg of body weight) administered on day 2 along with artesunate plus sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (AS+SP) while 12 did not. We estimated the effect of primaquine on posttreatment gametocyte clearance and the total number of gametocyte-weeks as determined by microscopy. We compared the median area under the curve for gametocyte density and reported adverse events. One thousand three hundred thirty-five patients completed the antimalarial drug treatment. Adjusting for region, primaquine increased the rate of gametocyte clearance (hazard ratio, 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 3.3), prevented 45% (95% CI, 19 to 62) of posttreatment gametocyte-weeks, and decreased the area under the gametocyte density curve over the 28-day follow-up compared to AS+SP alone (
P
value = 0.01). The results were robust to other adjustment sets, and the estimated effect of primaquine increased during sensitivity analysis on the measurement of exposure time. No serious adverse events were detected. In conclusion, the addition of primaquine to AS+SP was effective in reducing the posttreatment presence of
P. falciparum
gametocytes. Primaquine was well tolerated and could be administered along with an artemisinin combination therapy as the first-line therapy.
Distribution of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases, AmpC β-Lactamases, and Carbapenemases among Enterobacteriaceae Isolates Causing Intra-Abdominal Infections in the Asia-Pacific Region: Results of the Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART)
Authors: Sheng Wang-Huei , Badal Robert E. , Hsueh Po-Ren
Published: April 2013

The increasing trend of β-lactam resistance among
Enterobacteriaceae
is a worldwide threat.
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates causing intra-abdominal infections (IAI) from the Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) collected in 2008 and 2009 from the Asia-Pacific region were investigated. Detection of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), AmpC β-lactamases, and carbapenemases was performed by multiplex PCR. A total of 699
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates with positive genotypic results, included
Escherichia coli
(
n
= 443),
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(
n
= 187),
Enterobacter cloacae
(
n
= 45),
Klebsiella oxytoca
(
n
= 9),
Citrobacter freundii
(
n
= 5),
Proteus mirabilis
(
n
= 3),
Enterobacter aerogenes
(
n
= 2),
Morganella morganii
(
n
= 2), and one each of
Enterobacter asburiae
,
Proteus vulgaris
, and
Providencia rettgeri
were analyzed. Nearly 20% of these β-lactamase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates were from community-associated IAI. CTX-M (588 isolates, including 428 [72.8%] with CTX-M-15) was the most common ESBL, followed by SHV (
n
= 59) and TEM (
n
= 4). CMY (
n
= 110, including 102 [92.7%] with CMY-2) was the most common AmpC β-lactamase, followed by DHA (
n
= 46) and ACT/MIR (
n
= 40). NDM (
n
= 65, including 62 [95.4%] with NDM-1) was the most common carbapenemase, followed by IMP (
n
= 7) and OXA (
n
= 7). Isolates from hospital-associated IAI had more complicated β-lactamase combinations than isolates from the community. Carbapenemases were all exclusively detected in
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates from India, except that IMP β-lactamases were also detected in Philippines and Australia. CTX-M β-lactamases were the predominant ESBLs produced by
Enterobacteriaceae
causing IAI in the Asia-Pacific region. Emergence of CTX-M-15-, CMY-2-, and NDM-1-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
isolates is of major concern and highlights the need for further surveillance in this area.
Assessment of Efficacy of Antifungals against Aspergillus fumigatus: Value of Real-Time Bioluminescence Imaging
Authors: Galiger Célimène , Brock Matthias , Jouvion Grégory , Savers Amélie , Parlato Marianna , Ibrahim-Granet Oumaïma
Published: April 2013

Aspergillus fumigatuscauses life-threatening infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. Common drugs for therapy of aspergillosis are polyenes, azoles, and echinocandins. However, despitein vitroefficacy of these antifungals, treatment failure is frequently observed. In this study, we established bioluminescence imaging to monitor drug efficacy underin vitroandin vivoconditions.In vitroassays confirmed the effectiveness of liposomal amphotericin B, voriconazole, and anidulafungin. Liposomal amphotericin B and voriconazole were fungicidal, whereas anidulafungin allowed initial germination of conidia that stopped elongation but allowed the conidia to remain viable.In vivostudies were performed with a leukopenic murine model. Mice were challenged by intranasal instillation with a bioluminescent reporter strain (5 × 105and 2.5 × 105conidia), and therapy efficacies of liposomal amphotericin B, voriconazole, and anidulafungin were monitored. For monotherapy, the highest treatment efficacy was observed with liposomal amphotericin B, whereas the efficacies of voriconazole and anidulafungin were strongly dependent on the infectious dose. When therapy efficacy was studied with different drug combinations, all combinations improved the rate of treatment success compared to that with monotherapy. One hundred percent survival was obtained for treatment with a combination of liposomal amphotericin B and anidulafungin, which prevented not only pulmonary infections but also infections of the sinus. In conclusion, combination therapy increases treatment success, at least in the murine infection model. In addition, our novel approach based on real-time imaging enablesin vivomonitoring of drug efficacy in different organs during therapy of invasive aspergillosis.
Prevalence of β-Lactamase-Encoding Genes among Enterobacteriaceae Bacteremia Isolates Collected in 26 U.S. Hospitals: Report from the SENTRY Antimicrobial Surveillance Program (2010)
Authors: Castanheira Mariana , Farrell Sarah E. , Deshpande Lalitagauri M. , Mendes Rodrigo E. , Jones Ronald N.
Published: April 2013

Enterobacteriaceae
bacteremia isolates (
n
= 195; 6.4% overall) collected from 26 U.S. hospitals located in 20 states were screened for various β-lactamase classes. A total of 175 isolates carried one to eight acquired β-lactamase genes of 44 types that were detected in 55 combinations. Eighty-five (43.6%) strains carried
bla
CTX-M
, and
bla
CTX-M-15
was the most prevalent (33.8%). Genes encoding OXA-1/30 (often associated with
bla
CTX-M-15
), CMY-2, SHV extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBLs), and TEM-1 were also prevalent. Among 33 carbapenem-resistant strains, 28 carried
bla
KPC-2
or
bla
KPC-3
(17 and 11 strains, respectively), and those were recovered mostly in the New York City area (16 strains) and Houston, TX (9 strains). Fourteen new SHV variants were identified among
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolates carrying one or multiple SHV alleles, three carrying G238S and/or E240K amino acid alterations that confer ESBL activity. Only two of eight
K. oxytoca
isolates carried acquired β-lactamases, but most had mutations on the
bla
OXY
promoter region, and three new OXY-encoding genes were characterized. Concordance between a commercial nucleic acid-based microarray (Check-MDR CT101) and reference methods was noted for 105/109 (97.2%) strains. Thirty-two strains having genes that are not targeted by the commercial system were detected (OXA ESBLs, PER, PSE, or intrinsic genes). Overall, a great variety of enzymes were observed, with numerous strains carrying multiple genes. Rates of CTX-M-producing strains appear to be increasing in U.S. hospitals (26.6% in 2007 to 43.8% for 2010) participating in the SENTRY Program. Furthermore, the Check-Points system seems to be a reliable, robust, and user-friendly assay for detection of enzyme-mediated resistance.