bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing Theme‐Focused Prevention: Challenge for the 1980s
Authors: DRUM DAVID J.
Published: December 2011

This article describes theme‐focused prevention as a specific type of active primary prevention programming, offers principles to guide program design, and outlines an actual program.
Primary Prevention Through a Campus Alcohol Education Project
Authors: CONYNE ROBERT K.
Published: December 2011

A comprehensive primary prevention model for campus alchohol education is described. Preliminary results are presented for policy implementation and a fraternity alcohol education intervention.
Stress Inoculation Training: A Generic Approach for the Prevention of Stress‐Related Disorders
Authors: JAREMKO MATT E.
Published: December 2011

Stress inoculation, a cognitive‐behavioral approach for preventing stress‐related disorders, is described and applied to academic, occupational, social, medical, and environmental stressors.
Endurance training decreases the non‐linearity in the oxygen uptake–power output relationship in humans
Authors: Majerczak Joanna , Korostynski Michal , Nieckarz Zenon , Szkutnik Zbigniew , Duda Krzysztof , Zoladz Jerzy A.
Published: December 2011

In this study, we hypothesized that 5 weeks of cycling endurance training can decrease the magnitude of the non‐proportional increase in oxygen uptake (
) to power output relationship (
‘excess’) at exercise intensities exceeding the lactate threshold (LT). Ten untrained, physically active men performed a bout of incremental cycling exercise until exhaustion before and after training. The mitochondrial DNA copy number, myosin heavy chain composition and content of uncoupling protein 3 and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPases (SERCAs) were analysed in muscle biopsies taken from vastus lateralis before and after training. The training resulted in an enhancement of the power‐generating capabilities at maximal oxygen uptake (
) by ∼7% (P= 0.002) despite there being no changes in
(P= 0.49). This effect was due to a considerable reduction in the magnitude of the
‘excess’ (P < 0.05) above the LT. A decrease in plasma ammonia concentration was found during exercise after training (P < 0.05). A downregulation of SERCA2 in vastus lateralis (P= 0.006) was observed after training. No changes in myosin heavy chain composition, selected electron transport chain proteins, uncoupling protein 3 or the mitochondrial DNA copy number (P > 0.05) were found after training. We conclude that the training‐induced increase in power‐generating capabilities at
was due to attenuation of the
‘excess’ above the LT. This adaptive response seems to be related to the improvement of muscle metabolic stability, as judged by a lowering of plasma ammonia concentration. The enhancement of muscle metabolic stability after training could be caused by a decrease in ATP usage at a given power output owing to downregulation of SERCA2 pumps.
Positive allosteric modulation reveals a specific role for mGlu2 receptors in sensory processing in the thalamus
Authors: Copeland C. S. , Neale S. A. , Salt T. E.
Published: December 2011

Non‐technical summary  Neurones in the ventrobasal thalamic nucleus (VB) are the major source of somatosensory input to the cerebral cortex. Thorough investigation has identified neuronal circuits formed between the VB and the adjacent thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN); and Group II metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors located within this circuitry have been demonstrated as capable of modulating somatosensory transmission. There are two Group II mGlu receptor subtypes, mGlu2 and mGlu3, and this study has demonstrated that there is an mGlu2 component to the Group II mGlu receptor effect on sensory transmission within the VB, and that the mGlu2 receptor subtype may be activated physiologically upon sensory stimulation. It is believed that this circuitry is of importance in the control of sensory discriminative processes, and we propose that mGlu2 functions within this circuitry to enable relevant sensory information to be discerned from background activity.
Resistance training alters skeletal muscle structure and function in human heart failure: effects at the tissue, cellular and molecular levels
Authors: Toth Michael J. , Miller Mark S. , VanBuren Peter , Bedrin Nicholas G. , LeWinter Martin M. , Ades Philip A. , Palmer Bradley M.
Published: December 2011

Key points 

Individuals suffering from chronic heart failure are less able to perform everyday tasks.

This physical disability is explained, in part, by muscle weakness secondary to alterations in the proteins in muscles that are necessary for muscle contraction (myofilament proteins).

Weight training exercise increases muscle strength and physical function in heart failure patients, but the mechanisms of these improvements is uncertain.

We show that resistance training improves muscle strength through increased function of myofilament proteins.

These studies are important because they identify the molecular and cellular mechanisms whereby this type of training may promote beneficial changes in physical function in elderly individuals with heart failure.
Non‐invasive long‐term and real‐time analysis of endocrine cells on micro‐electrode arrays
Authors: Raoux Matthieu , Bornat Yannick , Quotb Adam , Catargi Bogdan , Renaud Sylvie , Lang Jochen
Published: December 2011

Key points 

Pancreatic islet cells are required for glucose homeostasis and their dysfunction leads to diabetes mellitus.

The electrical activity of these cells is regulated by nutrients as well as hormones and this provides the first integrative read‐out reflecting their function.

Non‐invasive recording of their electrical activity and its analysis in real time would provide the possibility of long‐term and repetitive investigations or testing of multiple drugs.

Combining electrophysiology and microelectronics, we now demonstrate such an approach with multiple (up to 60) electrodes and including on‐line signal analysis on the two major cell types present in islets, α‐ and β‐cells.

This method should be applicable to other endocrine cells and may serve in the long‐run as the basis for a novel biosensor.
Basket cell dichotomy in microcircuit function
Authors: Armstrong Caren , Soltesz Ivan
Published: December 2011

Abstract  A diversity of GABAergic cell types exist within each brain area, and each cell type is thought to play a unique role in the modulation of principal cell output. Basket cells, whose axon terminals surround principal cell somata and proximal dendrites, have a privileged and influential position for regulating the firing of principal cells. This review explores the dichotomy of the two basket cell classes, cholecystokinin‐ (CCK) and parvalbumin (PV)‐containing basket cells, beginning with differences at the level of the individual cell and subsequently focusing on two ways in which this intrinsic dichotomy is enhanced by extrinsic factors. Neuromodulatory influences, exemplified by the effects of the peptide CCK, dynamically enhance the differential functions of the two cell types. Specifications at the level of the postsynaptic principal cell, including input‐specific differences in chloride handling and differences in long‐range projection patterns of the principal cell targets, also enhance the distinct network function of basket cells. In this review, new findings will be highlighted concerning the roles of neuromodulatory control and postsynaptic long‐range projection pattern in the definition of basket cell function.
Quality of in-hospital cardiac arrest calls: a prospective observational study
Authors: Akhtar Naheed , Field Richard A , Greenwood Liz , Davies Robin P , Woolley Sarah , Cooke Matthew W , Perkins Gavin D
Published: December 2011

Objective

To determine the quality and diagnostic accuracy of in-hospital adult clinical emergency calls.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Three National Health Service acute hospitals in England.

Participants

Adult patients sustaining an in-hospital cardiac arrest (CA) or medical emergency (ME) which required activation of the hospital resuscitation team between 1 December 2009 and 30 April 2010.

Main outcome measures

Emergency call duration, emergency team dispatch time, diagnostic accuracy of emergency call (sensitivity/specificity), thematic analysis of emergency call, patient outcomes (return of spontaneous circulation and survival to hospital discharge).

Results

There were 426 adult resuscitation team activations. There was variability in emergency call duration ranging from 6 to 92 s (median 15 s; IQR 12–19). The sensitivity and specificity of calls for a CA was 91% (86.4–94.6%) and 62% (55.5–68.7%), respectively. Sensitivity did not change with call duration but specificity increased from 38% (25.8–51.0%) for the shortest calls to 82% (69.5–89.6%) for longer calls; p=0.03. The return of spontaneous circulation rate was 38% for calls when the patient was confirmed as in CA upon arrival of the resuscitation team. Survival to hospital discharge rates was higher in patients with shorter call durations (26%) than calls with longer call duration (12%); p=0.028. Five themes emerged identifying reasons for the increased call delay.

Conclusion

There is variability in duration and diagnostic accuracy of in-hospital emergency calls. This is associated with delayed activation of the emergency response. The attempt to differentiate between ME and CA is a source of confusion. A single clinical emergency response for CA and ME calls may provide a more focused and timely emergency response.
Knowledge implementation in healthcare practice: a view from The Netherlands
Authors: Wensing Michel , Bal Roland , Friele Roland
Published: December 2011

In this contribution we discuss some pertinent issues regarding knowledge implementation in the Netherlands, focusing on the largest public funding agency for health research in the Netherlands (ZonMw). The commentary is based on a report, which includes a structured analysis of 79 projects funded by ZonMW, a survey of published implementation research covering 141 systematic reviews, and qualitative study of the implementation infrastructure in the Netherlands. Five themes were identified. First, the term ‘knowledge implementation’ may be better replaced by more specific terms in some situations. Second, contextual factors need to be taken more systematically into account when planning and evaluating implementation programs. Third, knowledge may change when implemented and this needs to be considered in projects. Fourth, we observed that implementation has developed into a specific world, separated from both healthcare practice and scientific research. It is important to guard against the risk of isolation from the practical and societal needs that the field is meant to address. Finally, we suggest that the strong focus on ‘doing projects’ and limited opportunities for structural funding may reduce substantial improvement in the field. Many good activities are underway, but the policies regarding knowledge implementation appear to need some adjustment. In its policy plan for the coming years, ZonMW has partly taken up the lessons from our advisory report.
Emergency department crowding: prioritising quantified crowding measures using a Delphi study
Authors: Beniuk Kathleen , Boyle Adrian A , Clarkson P John
Published: December 2011

Aims

Emergency department (ED) crowding has been associated with a number of negative health outcomes, including unnecessary deaths, increased waiting times and a decrease in care quality. Despite the seriousness of this issue, there is little agreement on appropriate crowding measures to assess crowding effects on ED operations. The objective of this study was to prioritise a list of quantified crowding measures that would assess the current state of a department.

Methods

A three round Delphi study was conducted via email and an Internet based survey tool. The panel consisted of 40 professionals who had exposure to and expertise in crowding. Participants submitted quantified crowding measures which, through three rounds, were evaluated and ranked to assess participant agreement for inclusion.

Results

The panel identified 27 measures of which eight (29.6%) reached consensus at the end of the study. These measures comprised: (1) ability of ambulances to offload; (2) patients who leave without being seen or treated; (3) time until triage; (4) ED occupancy rate; (5) patients' total length of stay in the ED; (6) time to see a physician; (7) ED boarding time; and (8) number of patients boarding in the ED.

Conclusions

This study resulted in the identification of eight quantified crowding measures, which present a comprehensive view of how crowding is affecting ED operations, and highlighted areas of concern. These quantified measures have the potential to make a considerable contribution to decision making by ED management and to provide a basis for learning across different departments.
Testing the fathers: carrying out HIV and STI tests on partners of pregnant women: Figure 1
Authors: Dhairyawan R , Creighton S , Sivyour L , Anderson J
Published: December 2011

Objectives

Opt out antenatal HIV testing has significantly reduced mother to child transmission of HIV, but seroconversion during pregnancy from undiagnosed HIV positive male partners remains a risk. The authors report on a pilot initiative for sexual health and HIV screening for male partners of women attending antenatal ultrasound examination at Homerton Hospital, London.

Methods

Men attending with their female partners for routine ultrasound examination between 1 August 2010 and 31 January 2011 were offered on-site serology for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C and urine testing forNeiserria gonorrhoeaeandChlamydia trachomatis. Results were followed up through the genitourinary medicine service. Referral pathways were established for men with positive results.

Results

1243 male partners of 2400 women attended ultrasound examinations, of whom 430 accepted testing (acceptance rate 35% and coverage rate 18%). Median age was 32 years (range 19–52). 112/430 (26%) male partners were of black ethnicity. 41% had previously had a HIV test. There was no difference in prior HIV testing between whites and non-whites. 16 infections were diagnosed, including two cases of hepatitis C, eight cases of hepatitis B and six cases ofC trachomatis. No HIV diagnoses were made.

Conclusions

The authors have shown that it is acceptable and feasible to engage heterosexual men for testing in this setting. Of those men who accepted HIV testing, more than half had never been previously tested. 4% of men tested had an infection, which had the potential to affect the outcome of the pregnancy.
Intracellular Ca2+release underlies the development of phase 2 in mouse ventricular action potentials
Authors: Ferreiro Marcela , Petrosky Azadé D. , Escobar Ariel L.
Published: December 2011

The ventricular action potential (AP) is characterized by a fast depolarizing phase followed by a repolarization that displays a second upstroke known as phase 2. This phase is generally not present in mouse ventricular myocytes. Thus we performed colocalized electrophysiological and optical recordings of APs in Langendorff-perfused mouse hearts founding a noticeable phase 2. Ryanodine as well as nifedipine reduced phase 2. Our hypothesis is that a depolarizing current activated by Ca2+released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) rather than the “electrogenicity” of the L-type Ca2+current is crucial in the generation of mouse ventricular phase 2. When Na+was partially replaced by Li+in the extracellular perfusate or the organ was cooled down, phase 2 was reduced. These results suggest that the Na+/Ca2+exchanger functioning in the forward mode is driving the depolarizing current that defines phase 2. Phase 2 appears to be an intrinsic characteristic of single isolated myocytes and not an emergent property of the tissue. As in whole heart experiments, ventricular myocytes impaled with microelectrodes displayed a large phase 2 that significantly increases when temperature was raised from 22 to 37°C. We conclude that mouse ventricular APs display a phase 2; however, changes in Ca2+dynamics and thermodynamic parameters also diminish phase 2, mostly by impairing the Na+/Ca2+exchanger. In summary, these results provide important insights about the role of Ca2+release in AP ventricular repolarization under physiological and pathological conditions.
The Na+/K+ pump is an important modulator of refractoriness and rotor dynamics in human atrial tissue
Authors: Sánchez Carlos , Corrias Alberto , Bueno-Orovio Alfonso , Davies Mark , Swinton Jonathan , Jacobson Ingemar , Laguna Pablo , Pueyo Esther , Rodríguez Blanca
Published: December 2011

Pharmacological treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) exhibits limited efficacy. Further developments require a comprehensive characterization of ionic modulators of electrophysiology in human atria. Our aim is to systematically investigate the relative importance of ionic properties in modulating excitability, refractoriness, and rotor dynamics in human atria before and after AF-related electrical remodeling (AFER). Computer simulations of single cell and tissue atrial electrophysiology were conducted using two human atrial action potential (AP) models. Changes in AP, refractory period (RP), conduction velocity (CV), and rotor dynamics caused by alterations in key properties of all atrial ionic currents were characterized before and after AFER. Results show that the investigated human atrial electrophysiological properties are primarily modulated by maximal value of Na+/K+ pump current ( GNaK) as well as conductances of inward rectifier potassium current ( GK1) and fast inward sodium current ( GNa). GNaK plays a fundamental role through both electrogenic and homeostatic modulation of AP duration (APD), APD restitution, RP, and reentrant dominant frequency (DF). GK1 controls DF through modulation of AP, APD restitution, RP, and CV. GNa is key in determining DF through alteration of CV and RP, particularly in AFER. Changes in ionic currents have qualitatively similar effects in control and AFER, but effects are smaller in AFER. The systematic analysis conducted in this study unravels the important role of the Na+/K+ pump current in determining human atrial electrophysiology.
Angiotensin-(1–7) attenuates the chronotropic response to angiotensin II via stimulation of PTEN in the spontaneously hypertensive rat neurons
Authors: Modgil Amit , Zhang Qi , Pingili Ajeeth , Singh Neha , Yao Fanrong , Ge Jingyan , Guo Lirong , Xuan Chengluan , O'Rourke Stephen T. , Sun Chengwen
Published: December 2011

Several studies have focused on the beneficial effects of peripheral angiotensin-(1–7) [Ang-(1–7)] in the regulation of cardiovascular function, showing its counterregulatory effect against the actions of angiotensin II (ANG II). However, its actions in the central nervous system are not completely understood. In the present study, we investigated the intracellular mechanisms underlying the action of ANG-(1–7) using the patch-clamp technique in neurons cultured from the hypothalamus of neonatal spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Superfusion of neurons with ANG II (100 nM) significantly increased neuronal firing in both strains of rats, and this chronotropic effect of ANG II was significantly enhanced in prehypertensive SHR neurons compared with WKY rat neurons. The enhanced chronotropic effect of ANG II was attenuated by a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) inhibitor, LY 294002 (10 μM). Superfusion of neurons with ANG-(1–7) (100 nM) did not alter the neuronal firing rate in either SHR or WKY neurons; however, it significantly attenuated the chronotropic action of ANG II exclusively in prehypertensive SHR neurons. This counterregulatory effect of ANG-(1–7) on ANG II action in prehypertensive SHR neurons was attenuated by cotreatment with either A-779, a Mas receptor antagonist, or bisperoxovanadium, a phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) inhibitor. In addition, incubation of WKY and prehypertensive SHR neurons with ANG-(1–7) significantly increased PTEN activity. The data demonstrate that ANG-(1–7) counterregulates the chronotropic action of ANG II via a PTEN-dependent signaling pathway in prehypertensive SHR neurons.
Apocynin improves oxygenation and increases eNOS in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Authors: Wedgwood Stephen , Lakshminrusimha Satyan , Farrow Kathryn N. , Czech Lyubov , Gugino Sylvia F. , Soares Fernando , Russell James A. , Steinhorn Robin H.
Published: December 2011

NADPH oxidase is a major source of superoxide anions in the pulmonary arteries (PA). We previously reported that intratracheal SOD improves oxygenation and restores endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) function in lambs with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). In this study, we determined the effects of the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin on oxygenation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and NO signaling in PPHN lambs. PPHN was induced in lambs by antenatal ligation of the ductus arteriosus 9 days prior to delivery. Lambs were treated with vehicle or apocynin (3 mg/kg intratracheally) at birth and then ventilated with 100% O2 for 24 h. A significant improvement in oxygenation was observed in apocynin-treated lambs after 24 h of ventilation. Contractility of isolated fifth-generation PA to norepinephrine was attenuated in apocynin-treated lambs. PA constrictions to NO synthase (NOS) inhibition with N-nitro-l-arginine were blunted in PPHN lambs; apocynin restored contractility to N-nitro-l-arginine, suggesting increased NOS activity. Intratracheal apocynin also enhanced PA relaxations to the eNOS activator A-23187 and to the NO donor S-nitrosyl- N-acetyl-penicillamine. Apocynin decreased the interaction between NADPH oxidase subunits p22phox and p47phox and decreased the expression of Nox2 and p22phox in ventilated PPHN lungs. These findings were associated with decreased superoxide and 3-nitrotyrosine levels in the PA of apocynin-treated PPHN lambs. eNOS protein expression, endothelial NO levels, and tetrahydrobiopterin-to-dihydrobiopterin ratios were significantly increased in PA from apocynin-treated lambs, although cGMP levels did not significantly increase and phosphodiesterase-5 activity did not significantly decrease. NADPH oxidase inhibition with apocynin may improve oxygenation, in part, by attenuating ROS-mediated vasoconstriction and by increasing NOS activity.
Perfusion CT in Patients With Spontaneous Lobar Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Etminan Nima , Beseoglu Kerim , Turowski Bernd , Steiger Hans-Jakob , Hänggi Daniel
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

The aim of the present study was to investigate cerebral hemodynamics in patients requiring surgical treatment for lobar intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods—

Twenty patients who underwent surgery to remove a lobar spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage were scanned before and after surgery using perfusion CT mapping. Mean transit time, time to peak of the residue function, cerebral blood volume, and cerebral blood flow were measured in 4 defined regions of interest.

Results—

Preoperatively, time to peak of the residue function, cerebral blood volume, and cerebral blood flow were significantly impaired in the perihemorrhagic zone as compared with the ipsilateral and contralateral hemisphere. Perihematomal perfusion improved significantly after clot evacuation and there was no difference in time to peak of the residue function, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral blood volume values between the perihemorrhagic zone and ipsilateral as well as contralateral hemisphere after surgical treatment.

Conclusions—

Our findings illustrate distinct perihemorrhagic perfusion impairments in a selected patient population with lobar intracerebral hemorrhage as evident by impaired time to peak of the residue function, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral blood volume and their improvement after early surgical treatment. Whether these early improvements in hemodynamic measurements may influence secondary neuronal injury and ultimately clinical outcome, as opposed to the natural course of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage remains unclear.
Arterial Stiffness and Stroke in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Belizna Cristina , Loufrani Laurent , Ghali Alaa , Lahary Agnes , Primard Etienne , Louvel Jean-Pierre , Henrion Daniel , Lévesque Hervé , Ifrah Norbert
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

Large vessels are also affected in sickle cell disease. The aim of this study was to assess several parameters in adult patients with sickle cell disease compared with control subjects and in patients with sickle cell disease with stroke.

Methods—

Carotid arterial stiffness, intima-media thickness, and transcranial Doppler ultrasonography were measured.

Results—

Arterial stiffness and transcranial Doppler velocity were significantly increased in 49 patients with sickle cell disease compared with 47 control subjects (
P
<0.05) and especially in patients with stroke (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

These data suggest that transcranial Doppler and arterial stiffness might be associated to stroke in adult patients with sickle cell disease.
Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor for Mobilizing Bone Marrow Stem Cells in Subacute Stroke
Authors: England Timothy J. , Abaei Maryam , Auer Dorothee P. , Lowe James , Jones D. Rhodri E. , Sare Gillian , Walker Marion , Bath Philip M.W.
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is neuroprotective in experimental stroke and mobilizes CD34
+
peripheral blood stem cells into the circulation. We assessed the safety of G-CSF in recent stroke in a phase IIb single-center randomized, controlled trial.

Methods—

G-CSF (10 μg/kg) or placebo (ratio 2:1) was given SC for 5 days to 60 patients 3 to 30 days after ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. The primary outcome was the frequency of serious adverse events. Peripheral blood counts, CD34
+
count, and functional outcome were measured. MRI assessed lesion volume, atrophy, and the presence of iron-labeled CD34
+
cells reinjected on day 6.

Results—

Sixty patients were recruited at mean of 8 days (SD ±5) post ictus, with mean age 71 years (±12 years) and 53% men. The groups were well matched for baseline minimization/prognostic factors. There were no significant differences between groups in the number of participants with serious adverse events: G-CSF 15 (37.5%) of 40 versus placebo 7 (35%) of 20, death or dependency (modified Rankin Score: G-CSF 3.3±1.3, placebo 3.0±1.3) at 90 days, or the number of injections received. G-CSF increased CD34
+
and total white cell counts of 9.5- and 4.2-fold, respectively. There was a trend toward reduction in MRI ischemic lesion volume with respect to change from baseline in G-CSF–treated patients (
P
=0.06). In 1 participant, there was suggestion that labeled CD34
+
cells had migrated to the ischemic lesion.

Conclusions—

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial suggests that G-CSF is safe when administered subacutely. It is feasible to label and readminister iron-labeled CD34
+
cells in patients with ischemic stroke.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN63336619.
Predicting the Lack of Development of Delayed Cerebral Ischemia After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Crobeddu Emanuela , Mittal Manoj K. , Dupont Stefan , Wijdicks Eelco F.M. , Lanzino Giuseppe , Rabinstein Alejandro A.
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

Patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage are typically kept in the intensive care unit to be monitored for signs of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). Identifying patients at lower risk for DCI could have a positive financial impact by allowing earlier transfer from the intensive care unit.

Methods—

We analyzed 307 consecutive patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Demographic, clinical, and neuroimaging data were recorded. The relationship with absent DCI was analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.

Results—

DCI did not develop in 169 patients (57.9%). Among factors at admission, age 68 years or older (
P
=0.0003; OR, 3.16; 95% CI, 1.66–6.39), World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) I to III at presentation (
P
=0.0003; OR, 2.73; 95% CI, 1.57–4.79), WFNS I to III at worst (
P
=0.0003; OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.48–3.87), WFNS I to III after resuscitation (
P
=0.0006; OR, 2.85; 95% CI, 1.56–5.32), modified Fisher grade 1 to 2 (
P
=0.0021; OR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.37–4.47), absence of intracranial hematoma (
P
=0.0042; OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.29–4.01), and aneurysm in the posterior circulation (
P
=0.025; OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.07–2.87) were associated with absence of DCI. On multivariate analysis, a model including age 68 years or older, WFNS I to III at presentation and a modified Fisher grade 1 to 2 were independently predictive of the absence of DCI, with a specificity of 100% and a positive predictive value of 100%.

Conclusions—

We propose a new model that can reliably identify patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage who are at very low risk for DCI. These patients could be candidates for early transfer to the general ward.
Comparing knowledge bases: on the geography and organization of knowledge sourcing in the regional innovation system of Scania, Sweden
Authors: Martin Roman , Moodysson Jerker
Published: December 2011

This paper deals with knowledge flows and collaboration between firms in the regional innovation system of southern Sweden. The aim is to analyse how the functional and spatial organization of knowledge interdependencies among firms and other actors varies between different types of industries that draw on different types of knowledge bases. We use data from three case studies of firm clusters in the region: (1) the life science cluster represents an analytical (science-based) industry, (2) the food cluster includes mainly synthetic (engineering-based) industries, and (3) the moving media cluster is considered to be symbolic (artistic based). Knowledge sourcing and knowledge exchange in each of the cases are explored and compared using social network analysis in association with data gathered through interviews with firm representatives. Our findings reveal that knowledge exchange in geographical proximity is especially important for industries that rely on a symbolic or synthetic knowledge base, because the interpretation of the knowledge they deal with tends to differ between places. This is less the case for industries drawing on an analytical knowledge base, which rely more on scientific knowledge that is codified, abstract and universal and are therefore less sensitive to geographical distance. Thus, geographical clustering of firms in analytical industries builds on rationales other than the need for proximity for knowledge sourcing.
Knowledge and Perceptions of HIV-Infected Patients Regarding HIV Transmission and Treatment in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Don , Dinh An T. , Groce Nora , Sullivan Lynn E.
Published: December 2011

Patient education concerning HIV and antiretroviral (ARV) medications is important for optimal outcomes. The authors assessed the knowledge and perceptions of HIV-infected patients in an ARV education program in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Of 185 patients, 64 (35%) receiving ARV medications, nearly 80% correctly answered questions regarding HIV. Correct responses were associated with higher education ( P < .05) and longer duration of HIV diagnosis ( P < .05). A lack of knowledge was observed in 40% of respondents who believed HIV and AIDS were the same and 70% of respondents who believed ARV medications cured HIV. Greater embarrassment of living with HIV was associated with female gender ( P < .05) and lower education ( P < .05). Patients were concerned over ARV medication use (27%) and its side effects (38%). The study population’s knowledge of HIV/AIDS and ARV medications, perceived stigmatization, and areas of knowledge deficits underscore the need for effective patient education programs addressing poorly understood issues around HIV/AIDS.
Home and Other Nontraffic Injuries Among Children and Youth in a High-Income Middle Eastern Country
Authors: Grivna Michal , Barss Peter , Stanculescu Cristina , Eid Hani O. , Abu-Zidan Fikri M.
Published: December 2011

A trauma registry in the United Arab Emirates was used to ascertain nontraffic injuries of 0- to 19-year-olds. The registry’s value for prevention was assessed. A total of 292 children and youth with nontraffic injuries were admitted for >24 hours at surgical wards of the main trauma hospital in Al Ain region during 36 months in 2003-2006. Injuries were analyzed by external cause, location, body part, and severity. Nontraffic represented 60% (n = 292) of child and youth injuries. Incidence/100 000 person-years was 91 for males, 43 for females. Unintentional included falls 65% (n = 191), burns 17% (n = 49), animal-related (mainly camel) 3% (n = 10), and others 10% (n = 29). Intentional accounted for 4% (n = 13). Falls affected all ages, burns mainly 1- to 4-year-olds. Of the injuries, 70% occurred at home. Most frequent and severe injuries measured by the Injury Severity Score and Abbreviated Injury Scale involved extremities. Prevention of home falls for all ages and burns of 1- to 4-year-olds are priorities. Registries should cover pediatric wards and include data on fall locations and hazardous products.
Social comparison processes, narrative mapping and their shaping of the cancer experience: A case study of an elite athlete
Authors: Sparkes Andrew C. , Pérez-Samaniego Víctor , Smith Brett
Published: December 2011

Drawing on data generated by life history interviews and fieldwork observations we illuminate the ways in which a young elite athlete named David (a pseudonym) gave meaning to his experiences of cancer that eventually led to his death. Central to this process were the ways in which David utilized both social comparisons and a narrative map provided by the published autobiography of Lance Armstrong (2000). Our analysis reveals the selective manner in which social comparison processes operated around the following key dimensions: mental attitude to treatment; the sporting body; the ageing body; and physical appearance. The manner in which different comparison targets were chosen, the ways in which these were framed by Armstrong’s autobiography, and the work that the restitution narrative as an actor did in this process are also examined. Some reflections are offered regarding the experiential consequences of the social comparison processes utilized by David when these are shaped by specific forms of embodiment and selective narrative maps of cancer survival.
Negotiating sexual meanings: Global discourses, local practices, and Sri Lanka’s Free Trade Zone (FTZ) factory workers
Authors: Hewamanne Sandya
Published: December 2011

Utilizing extensive ethnographic research in Sri Lanka’s Katunayake Free Trade Zone (FTZ), this article analyzes women workers’ engagement in sexual banter on city streets. It argues that these acts and the sexualized vocabulary associated with them are contextually negotiated and, by challenging the dominant mores of respectability, also empower its practitioners. The article further argues that by uncritically adopting Western notions of sexual harassment to condemn sexual banter NGOs have unintentionally colluded in the capitalist global scheme to produce docile working-class women and thereby ensure an ideal assembly line workforce. The article comments on how women workers refused to be governed by technologies of self, which were disseminated by the media and NGO workshops as appropriate for modern, educated, and urban women, and how this refusal not only marks their difference from the middle classes but also represent one way in which they participate in subaltern politics.
Making meaning: Individual and group response within a book club structure
Authors: Barone Diane
Published: December 2011

This article positions a view of student responses with relation to current literacy expectations. Student responses to a single book, The Egypt Game, are explored. The responses are analysed from a group and individual student perspectives. The responses demonstrate the complex understandings that young students created about this book. Connections to current classroom practices are explored.
Use of Contract Grading to Improve Grades Among College Freshmen in Introductory Psychology
Authors: Lindemann Dana F. , Harbke Colin R.
Published: December 2011

The use of behavioral techniques in college teaching has declined during the past three decades. The purpose of this study was to compare a behaviorally based grading approach with a traditional point-based system. A total of 40 college freshmen were randomly assigned to a Traditionally Graded or Contract Graded Introductory Psychology course. Contract graded students were one third as likely to fail or withdraw, 3 times more likely to earn an A grade, and were more likely to perceive a high degree of control over their grade. These findings support use of a contract grading system in the contemporary college classroom.
Structural Measures for Network Biology Using QuACN
Authors: Mueller Laurin AJ , Kugler Karl G , Graber Armin , Emmert-Streib Frank , Dehmer Matthias
Published: December 2011

Background

Structural measures for networks have been extensively developed, but many of them have not yet demonstrated their sustainably. That means, it remains often unclear whether a particular measure is useful and feasible to solve a particular problem in network biology. Exemplarily, the classification of complex biological networks can be named, for which structural measures are used leading to a minimal classification error. Hence, there is a strong need to provide freely available software packages to calculate and demonstrate the appropriate usage of structural graph measures in network biology.

Results

Here, we discuss topological network descriptors that are implemented in the R-package QuACN and demonstrate their behavior and characteristics by applying them to a set of example graphs. Moreover, we show a representative application to illustrate their capabilities for classifying biological networks. In particular, we infer gene regulatory networks from microarray data and classify them by methods provided by QuACN. Note that QuACN is the first freely available software written in R containing a large number of structural graph measures.

Conclusion

The R package QuACN is under ongoing development and we add promising groups of topological network descriptors continuously. The package can be used to answer intriguing research questions in network biology, e.g., classifying biological data or identifying meaningful biological features, by analyzing the topology of biological networks.
Neuropsychological Intervention in a Case of Korsakoff's Amnesia
Authors: Monteiro Maria de Fatima Alves , Bolognani Silvia Adriana Prado , Rivero Thiago Strahler , Bueno Orlando Francisco Amodeo
Published: December 2011

The cognitive symptoms that characterise the Wernicke-Korsakoff's syndrome include anterograde amnesia, confabulation, temporal–spatial disorientation, severe apathy, poor awareness of one's own mental state and changes in executive functions. Such deficits may persist even after the clinical profile stabilises. There are no studies that report an intervention after the acute phase, possibly due to the complexity of these cases. This study provides a descriptive analysis of neuropsychological rehabilitation concomitant to the neurological and psychiatric treatment of a woman who presented the symptoms described by Korsakoff. The intervention focused on reducing the impact caused by the cognitive and behavioural sequelae in the patient's daily life. It described a 25-week neuropsychological program, providing education and compensatory strategies for the patient, and also orientation and support from 2 professional caregivers and family members. Quantitative and qualitative measures were used to evaluate the effect of the intervention on memory efficacy, emotional state and social participation. Both caregivers reported a decrease in the frequency of memory lapses after treatment. Positive changes were also seen in self-care, activities at home, decision-making and participation in social activities. It is concluded that this case achieved results through the collaboration between members of an interdisciplinary team and caregivers providing daily support.
US and European Public Procurement Policies for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME): A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Kidalov Max V. , Snider Keith F.
Published: December 2011

This paper provides a comparative perspective of public procurement policies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in the United States and Europe. Public procurement is increasingly recognized as a strategic function of public administration because of the huge amount of resources it consumes, as well as the important policy objectives it seeks to promote, including SME-related objectives. Progress towards meeting SME procurement participation goals, however, remains elusive on both sides of the Atlantic. Policy makers and administrators have little comparative research upon which to draw regarding the effectiveness of various policy approaches, a shortcoming this paper seeks to address. An institutional perspective is adopted which helps explain similarities and differences in U.S. and European SME policies.
Optimized Neural Network for Instant Coffee Classification through an Electronic Nose
Authors: Bona Evandro , da Silva Rui Sérgio dos Santos Ferreira , Borsato Dionísio , Bassoli Denisley Gentil
Published: December 2011

Flavor is one of the most important features of food, especially of coffee. The evaluation of this sensory feature is complex yet indispensable in quality control of instant coffees. In this work, an artificial neural network (ANN) was developed for instant coffee classification based on an electronic nose (EN) aroma profile. To this purpose, a hybrid algorithm was developed, containing: bootstrap resample methodology; factorial design and sequential simplex optimization to tune network parameters; an ensemble multilayer perceptron (MLP) trained with backpropagation for coffee classification; and causal index procedure for knowledge extraction from the trained ANN. The produced neural network classifier correctly recognizes 100% of coffees studied. Furthermore, the causal index employment allowed inference of some rules on how the coffees were separated according to the sensors available in EN. The results indicate that the applied methodology is a promising tool for instant coffee quality control.
Effect of organic pollutant treatment on the growth of pea and maize seedlings
Authors: Kummerová Marie , Zezulka Štěpán , Váňová Lucie , Fišerová Helena
Published: December 2011

This study confirmed the considerable effect of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon fluoranthene (FLT; 0.01, 0.1, 1, 4 and 7 mg/l) exposure on the germination of seeds, growth and root morphology of seedlings in Zea mays and Pisum sativum. Seed germination was significantly inhibited at FLT≥0.01 mg/l in maize and at ≥1 mg/l in pea. The amount of released ethylene after 3 days of germination was significantly increased in both species at FLT≥0.1 mg/l. After 7 days of seedling cultivation a significant decrease in the dry weight of roots and shoots occurred in maize at FLT≥0.1 mg/l while in pea similar effect was observed at ≥1 mg/l. The total length of primary and lateral roots was significantly reduced by FLT≥1 mg/l in maize and by 4 and 7 mg/l in pea. The length of the non-branched part of the primary root was significantly reduced by FLT≥0.1 mg/l in maize and ≥0.01 mg/l in pea. In both species the number of lateral roots was significantly increased at FLT≤1 mg/l and inhibited at concentrations of 4 and 7 mg/l. Fluoranthene content in roots and shoots of both species positively correlated with the FLT treatment.
Intranasal insulin affects adenyl cyclase system in rat tissues in neonatal diabetes
Authors: Shpakov Alexander , Chistyakova Oksana , Derkach Kira , Moyseyuk Irina , Bondareva Vera
Published: December 2011

The changes in hormone-regulated adenylyl cyclase (AC) signaling system implicated in control of the nervous, cardiovascular and reproductive systems may contribute to complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). We investigated the functional state of AC system in the brain, myocardium, ovary and uterus of rats with neonatal DM and examined the influence of intranasally administered insulin on the sensitivity of this system to biogenic amines and polypeptide hormones. The regulatory effects of somatostatin and 5-HT1BR-agonist 5-nonyloxytryptamine acting via Gi protein-coupled receptors were significantly decreased in DM and partially restored in insulin-treated rats. The effects of hormones, activators of AC, are changed in tissue- and receptorspecific manner, and intranasal insulin restored the effects rather close to the level in control. In insulin-treated non-diabetic rats, AC stimulating effects of isoproterenol and relaxin in the myocardium and of human chorionic gonadotropin in the ovaries were decreased, while the effects of hormones, inhibitors of AC, were increased. These data indicate that with intranasal insulin, Gi protein-mediated signaling pathways continue to gain strength. The obtained data on the influence of hormones on AC system in the brain, myocardium, ovary and uterus allow looking anew into the mechanisms of therapeutic effects of intranasal insulin.
Phage therapy for plant disease control with a focus on fire blight
Authors: Nagy Judit , Király Lóránt , Schwarczinger Ildikó
Published: December 2011

The concept of using bacteriophages (bacterial viruses) as biocontrol agents in pest management emerged shortly after their discovery. Although research on phage-based biopesticides temporarily stopped with the advent of antibiotics, the appearance of antibiotic resistant bacterial strains led to a renewed interest in phage therapy for control of plant diseases. In the past twenty years numerous successful experiments have been reported on bacteriophage-based biocontrol measures, and several comprehensive studies have recently been published discussing detailed results of phage application practices in pest management, mainly from North American authors. The present review focuses on bacteriophage-mediated control of fire blight (caused by Erwinia amylovora (Burill) Winslow et al.), the most devastating bacterial disease of pome fruits. Research results from North America are discussed along with recent data from European laboratories.
Improved in vitro micropropagation method with adventitious corms and roots for endangered saffron
Authors: Zeybek Evrim , Önde Sertaç , Kaya Zeki
Published: December 2011

The objective of this study was to investigate development of an efficient in vitro tissue culture system for saffron (Crocus sativus L.) complete with roots and corms. In indirect organogenesis, Murashige and Skoog (MS) media with 3% (w/v) sucrose, 100 mg L−1 ascorbic acid, and the combination of 0.25 mg L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 1 mg L−1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) were best for callus initiation and growth while 1.5 mg L−1 BAP was excellent for high rate of adventitious shoot formation. 1 mg L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) was more preferable for adventitious corm and root initiation as well as growth. Overall, 64% rooting and 33% corm production rates were achieved in indirect organogenesis. In direct organogenesis, MS medium supplemented with 3 % sucrose, 100 mg L−1 ascorbic acid and 1 mg L−1 BAP was optimum for shoot growth. While 1 mg L−1 IBA was best for adventitious corm formation, 2 mg L−1 IBA promoted adventitious root initiation and growth. Overall, 36% and 57% of explants had corm and contractile root, respectively. The high rates suggest that efficient tissue culture system could be achieved for mass propagation and ex situ conservation of threatened saffron genetic resources.