bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should response rules be used to decide continued subsidy of very expensive drugs? A checklist for decision makers
Authors: Bell Katy J. L. , Irwig Les , March Lyn M. , Hayen Andrew , Macaskill Petra , Craig Jonathan C.
Published: October 2009

Response rules are increasingly used by the Pharmaceuticals Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the U.K. to limit continued subsidy of very expensive drugs to patients who demonstrate an ‘adequate’ response. By targeting therapy to patients who appear to benefit most, policy makers aim to increase the cost‐effectiveness of therapy. However, the value of response rules in fulfilling this aim is unproven. We present a four‐item checklist that may be used to help decision makers identify when a response rule is appropriate. As an example, we apply our checklist to the response rules used for tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis. On the basis of the checklist we find that the response rules in both countries are inadequate and may cause therapy to be inappropriately ceased in some and continued in others. Careful assessment is needed before decision makers adopt a response rule as a way of increasing the cost effectiveness of therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural insight into the interaction of proteins containing NPF, DPF, and GPF motifs with the C‐terminal EH‐domain of EHD1
Authors: Kieken Fabien , Jović Marko , Tonelli Marco , Naslavsky Naava , Caplan Steve , Sorgen Paul L.
Published: October 2009

Eps15 homology (EH)‐domain containing proteins are regulators of endocytic membrane trafficking. EH‐domain binding to proteins containing the tripeptide NPF has been well characterized, but recent studies have shown that EH‐domains are also able to interact with ligands containing DPF or GPF motifs. We demonstrate that the three motifs interact in a similar way with the EH‐domain of EHD1, with the NPF motif having the highest affinity due to the presence of an intermolecular hydrogen bond. The weaker affinity for the DPF and GPF motifs suggests that if complex formation occurs in vivo, they may require high ligand concentrations, the presence of successive motifs and/or specific flanking residues.
Positronium interaction and its Bose‐Einstein condensation
Authors: Adhikari Sadhan K.
Published: October 2009

We present the actual state of affairs and future perspectives in the study of a quantum system of a collection of positronium (Ps) atoms. The interaction of a Ps atom with other atoms and molecules and specially with another Ps atom is described in some detail as Ps‐Ps interaction should play a crucial role in the dynamics of an assembly of Ps atoms. Using a simple model‐exchange potential, we could describe the available experimental results of Ps scattering reasonably well.

The present scenario of the observation of Ps2 molecule, Ps Bose‐Einstein condensate (BEC) and the annihilation laser from a Ps BEC is presented. Possibilities of a Ps BEC formation via laser cooling of Ps atoms and via Ps formation in cavities are considered and difficulties with each procedure discussed (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Interfacial stabilization of binary polymer blends through radiation treatment: A free volume approach
Authors: Raj J. M. , Kumaraswamy G. N. , Ranganathaiah C.
Published: October 2009

Partially miscible blends of PS/PMMA and PVC/SAN with different compositions have been prepared by solvent casting technique and characterized by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Technique. Phase modification in these systems has been brought out using e‐ beam and microwave irradiation. These changes have been studied through free volume monitoring. The changes in free volume parameters upon e‐beam and microwave irradiation on the two systems clearly shows improved interaction between the blend constituents as a result of cross‐linking through hydrogen bond formations. The free volume data indicates the overall changes in the blend with respect to free volume, but the extent of interfacial modification occurred for different weight compositions are not forthcoming upon irradiation. Therefore, the hydrodynamic interaction parameter α which accounts for excess friction thus dissipation of energy at the interface between the constituents of polymer blend system is evaluated for this purpose from the very same free volume data. The parameter α represents the strength of hydrodynamic interaction or it is a measure of the adhesion strength at the interface. Present data based on hydrodynamic interaction parameter indicated that both e‐beam and microwave irradiation can be used to stabilize the interfaces in binary polymer blends but the better interface modifier on the two blend systems studied. But which route that is e‐beam or microwave depends on the presence of non‐polar/polar groups respectively. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spoliation of a rigid gas permeable contact lens by sodium chloride: A free volume microprobe study
Authors: Urs M. V. Deepa , Ranganathaiah C.
Published: October 2009

The interaction of one of the major inorganic ions present in tears, viz., sodium chloride (NaCl), with a rigid gas permeable contact lens, poly(Fluorosilicone acrylate) (FP92) has been investigated using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PLS) and refrac‐tive index measurement. We monitored the changes in its free volume size and number density in the presence of NaCl solute trans‐ported through diffusion. Based on PLS results, we propose that the adhesion of sodium chloride salt to the fluorine and methacrylate sites of FP92 results in zones of excess salt concentration. The changes in refractive index of the contact lens material due to the salt adhesion, correlates well with the changes in free volume of the material. Presence of sodium chloride perturbs the free volume of the lens material and hence its polarizability (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A unified linear Model Output Statistics scheme for both deterministic and ensemble forecasts
Authors: Vannitsem S.
Published: October 2009

An extension of the classical linear Model Output Statistics (MOS) technique is proposed allowing for the post‐processing of ensemble forecasts. In this new approach, the cost function on which the least square parameter estimation is based takes into account the presence of errors in both observations and model observables (referred to as Error‐in‐Variables MOS, EVMOS), unlike the classical linear MOS cost function whose implicit assumption is the absence of errors in the model observables. It allows for the maintenance of an appropriate variability for the corrected forecasts, even for long lead times and for providing a framework in which both deterministic and probabilistic forecasts can be corrected. The scheme is successfully tested for ensemble correction in the context of an idealized low‐order chaotic system, the Lorenz atmospheric model, in the presence of model errors, and compared with a classical technique, known as the non‐homogeneous Gaussian regression (NGR) method. The potential use of this approach is also briefly discussed. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Phase‐locking of a rapidly developing extratropical cyclone by Greenland's orography
Authors: Kristjánsson Jón Egill , Thorsteinsson Sigurdur , Røsting Bjørn
Published: October 2009

We present HIRLAM simulations of a deep extratropical cyclone that developed off the southeast coast of Greenland on 2–3 March 2007. The purpose of the simulations is to understand the role of orographic forcing for the cyclone evolution, relating the results to previous model studies. The cyclone evolution was preceded by a powerful cold air outbreak over Greenland, starting on 27 February, manifested by a southward movement of an upper‐level potential vorticity (PV) anomaly from 80°N to 60°N. In addition to a CONTROL run, starting at 0000 UTC 2 March, which captures the main features of the cyclone evolution quite well, we have carried out simulations in which Greenland's orography was removed (NOGREEN), as well as simulations with different starting times. In the NOGREEN simulation starting at 0000 UTC 2 March, the cyclone deepens more rapidly than in CONTROL, due to a stronger cold advection on the rear side, leading to a more rapid baroclinic energy conversion. Furthermore, the cyclone position is shifted northward by 500 km, compared to the CONTROL run. A very different result is found in the NOGREEN simulations that were started 24–36 hours earlier, as the cyclone off Greenland's southeast coast is now displaced eastwards by hundreds of km, and more so as the run starts earlier. The results indicate a phase‐locking by Greenland of a transient PV anomaly, indicating a mechanism for understanding cyclogenesis in this area. Without Greenland's orography, the PV anomaly is unconstrained, and the curvature of its southward trajectory is larger. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
On time‐evolution of a balanced circular vortex
Authors: Kurgansky M. V.
Published: October 2009

A simplified version of Eliassen's cyclostrophically and hydrostatically balanced circular vortex is considered, when the relative distribution of the tangential velocity is the same across the vortex at all altitudes (the similarity assumption). This vortex model mimics the high‐wind core of an intense tropical cyclone and might also be applicable to major tornadoes and to Martian giant dust devils. A self‐consistent problem is analytically solved to specify a slow time evolution of the primary and the secondary circulation in the vortex under the influence of the diabatic heating and the surface friction. The results show that a self‐similar balanced warm‐core vortex can either be stationary or decay (algebraically) in time, the latter for a vortex flow with incomplete similarity of the velocity field when the characteristics of the primary and the secondary circulation are scaled with height differently. Possible applications to the axisymmetric spin‐down dynamics of tropical cyclones are briefly discussed. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Weather radar data for site diversity predictions and evaluation of the impact of rain field advection
Authors: Luini Lorenzo , Jeannin Nicolas , Capsoni Carlo , Paraboni Aldo , Riva Carlo , Castanet Laurent , Lemorton Joël
Published: October 2009

This paper presents the analysis on two weather radar data sets, collected at Spino d'Adda (Italy) and Bordeaux (France), for the simulation and the performance evaluation of a site diversity system. Results from the two locations are compared and the impact of different factors such as the baseline and link orientation is assessed and related to the local climatologic characteristics. The results obtained are then compared with the model currently recommended by the ITU‐R for the estimation of the site diversity performance. A linkage is then established between the preferable baseline orientation and the predominant direction of the rain field advection. The rain field displacement is finally shown to be well approximated by the wind speed and direction relative to the 700 hPa isobar extracted from the European Center for Medium‐range Weather Forecast ERA‐40 meteorological database. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative Analysis of Primary and Secondary Structure for Pea Isoamylase Isoforms Predicts Different Catalytic Properties against Glucan Substrates
Authors: Hussain Hasnain , Martin Cathie
Published: October 2009

Screening of pea cDNA library has resulted in isolation of three different genes that encode different isoforms of isoamylase. From analysis and comparison with other isoamylase genes available from public databases and also from cDNA clones encoding isoforms of potato isoamylase, there are likely to be three isoforms of isoamylase in most (all) angiosperm genomes although so far only few plant species have their cDNA or genomic DNA characterised for these genes. Analysis of the primary structure of the isoforms of isoamylase from pea showed that all of them possess characteristics to bind glucan substrates. However, one of the isoform, Psisa2, most likely does not have catalytic activity. Since the analysis of this isoform concluded that it retained the characteristics to bind to glucans, Psisa2 might play a non‐catalytic role during the formation or degradation of starch.
Anti‐Ro52/SSA antibody‐exposed fetuses with prolonged atrioventricular time intervals show signs of decreased cardiac performance
Authors: Bergman G. , Eliasson H. , Bremme K. , Wahren‐Herlenius M. , Sonesson S.‐E.
Published: October 2009

Objective

To investigate if anti‐Ro/SSA antibody‐exposed fetuses with prolonged atrioventricular (AV) time intervals also have prolongation of the isovolumetric contraction time (ICT).

Methods

Seventy‐eight anti‐Ro/SSA (including 70 anti‐Ro52) antibody‐exposed fetuses at risk for congenital heart block (CHB) were followed weekly, between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, with two Doppler echocardiographic methods designed to detect signs of first‐degree AV block. One of these AV time measurements, using hemodynamic events from the mitral valve and aortic outflow as indirect markers of atrial and ventricular depolarization (MV‐Ao), was also used to calculate a time interval representing an early phase of systolic cardiac performance, i.e. the ICT. Two hundred and eighty‐four women with normal pregnancies served as controls for AV time intervals and another 106 were used to establish an ICT reference range.

Results

Strong positive relationships were found between ICT and MV‐Ao time intervals (r = 0.91, P < 0.001), as well as between ICT and time intervals obtained from the superior vena cava and aorta (r = 0.85, P < 0.001). The ICT was estimated to contribute more than 50% of the total AV time prolongation. Abnormal AV time and ICT intervals were only seen in anti‐Ro52 positive pregnancies.

Conclusions

The ICT is an important contributor to prolongation of AV time intervals. This observation suggests that anti‐Ro52/SSA antibody‐exposed fetal hearts have not only disturbed electrical conduction but also decreased mechanical performance. Moreover, our findings have implications for the interpretation of AV time intervals used for surveillance of fetuses at risk for developing CHB. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beger's operation and the Berne modification: origin and current results
Authors: Mihaljevic André L. , Kleeff Jörg , Friess Helmut
Published: October 2009

Background/purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illuminate the origin and current results of the duodenum‐preserving pancreatic head resection (DPPHR) developed by Beger in the 1970s, as well as its simplified Berne modification, for patients suffering from chronic pancreatitis (CP). Indications for the procedures and their results are presented on the basis of available data.

Methods

A selected review was made of the available data on the DPPHR developed by Beger and its modifications.

Results

The organ‐sparing DPPHR developed by Beger, and its modifications, provide better pain relief, better preservation of exocrine and endocrine pancreatic function, and a superior quality of life compared with the more radical pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD, with or without pylorus‐preservation), once the standard treatment for patients with CP. Recently published data on the long‐term follow‐up of studies comparing PD to DPPHR indicate that the initial benefits of DPPHR over PD might be less pronounced in the long‐run.

Conclusions

The organ‐preserving DPPHR developed by Beger, and its modifications, have become established and well‐evaluated surgical treatment options for patients with CP.
A remark on gauge transformations and the moving frame method
Authors: Schikorra Armin
Published: October 2009

In this note we give a shorter proof of recent regularity results on elliptic partial differential equations with antisymmetric structure presented in Rivière (2007) [23], Rivière and Struwe (2008) [24]. We differ from the mentioned articles in using the direct method of Hélein's moving frame, i.e. minimizing a certain variational energy-functional, in order to construct a suitable gauge transformation. Though this is neither new nor surprising, it enables us to describe a proof of regularity using elementary arguments of calculus of variations and algebraic identities.

Moreover, we remark that in order to prove Hildebrandt's conjecture on regularity of critical points of 2D-conformally invariant variational problems one can avoid the application of the Nash–Moser imbedding theorem.

La note contient une démonstation plus courte des résultats récents sur la régularité des solutions d'équations aux dérivées partielles ayant une structure antisymétrique comme dans Rivière (2007) [23], Rivière and Struwe (2008) [24]. La différence par rapport méthodes dans ces articles est qu'on utilise directement les « répères mobiles » developpés par Hélein, c'est – à – dire la minimisation d'une énergie variationnelle, dans la but de construire une transformation de Jauge. Même si ce n'est ni nouveau ni étonnant, ceci nous permet de mener une démonstration de régularité par des arguments élémentaires du calcul variationnel et des identités algébriques.

De plus, nous remarquons que la conjecture d'Hildebrandt, concernant la regularité des points critiques des problèmes variationnels invariants sous des transformations conformes, ne nécessite pas l'application du théorème dimmersion de Nash et Moser.
Evaluation of peripheral nerve injury⋆
Authors: Campbell William W.
Published: October 2009

Common etiologies of peripheral nerve injury include penetrating injury, crush, stretch, and ischemia. Management of nerve injury requires familiarity with the relevant anatomy, pathology, pathophysiology, and the surgical principles, approaches and concerns. Surgical repair is done at varying time intervals after the injury, and there are a number of considerations in deciding whether and when to operate. In neurapraxia, the compound muscle action and nerve action potentials on stimulating distal to the lesion are maintained indefinitely; stimulation above the lesion reveals partial or complete conduction block. The picture in axonotmesis and neurotmesis depends on the time since injury. The optimal timing for an electrodiagnostic study depends upon the clinical question being asked. Proximal nerve injuries are problematic because the long distance makes it difficult to reinnervate distal muscles before irreversible changes occur. In the early management of peripheral nerve injury, control of pain is often the most pressing consideration and a number of approaches may be used to bring relief.
ATP controls cell cycle and induces proliferation in the mouse developing retina
Authors: Sholl‐Franco Alfred , Fragel‐Madeira Lucianne , Macama Arciolanda da Canceição Cauaia , Linden Rafael , Ventura Ana Lucia Marques
Published: October 2009

Previous data suggest that nucleotides are important mitogens in the developing chick retina. Here, we extended the study on the mitogenic effect of ATP to newborn mouse retinal explants. Our results showed that P2Y1 receptors were widely distributed in C57bl/6 mice retina and that the majority of PCNA positive cells co‐localized with P2Y1 receptor. To evaluate proliferation, retinal explants obtained from newborn mice were incubated with 0.5 μCi [3H]‐thymidine or 3 μM BrDU 1 h before the end of culture. Our data showed that ATP induced a dose‐dependent increase in [3H]‐thymidine incorporation, an effect that was mimicked by ADP but not by UTP and was blocked by the P2 antagonist PPADS in a dose‐dependent manner. The increase in [3H]‐thymidine incorporation induced by ATP was only observed in explants cultured for 3 days or less and was mimicked by the ectoapyrase inhibitor ARL 67156. It corresponded to an increase in the number of BrdU+ cells in the neuroblastic layer (NL) of the tissue, suggesting that ATP, through activation of P2Y1 receptors, induced proliferation of late developing progenitors in retinal explants of newborn mice. The increase in the number of BrdU+ cells was observed across the whole NL when explants were incubated with ATP for 24 h and no increase in the number of p‐histone H3 labeled cells could be noticed at this time point. In longer incubations of 48 h with ATP or 24 h with ATP followed by a period of 24 h in fresh medium, an increase in the number of BrdU+ cells promoted by ATP was observed only in the middle and outer, but not in the inner NL. In these conditions, an increase in the number of p‐histone H3 labeled cells was detected in the outer NL, suggesting that ATP induced cells to enter S and progress to G2 phase of the cell cycle in the first 24 h period of incubation. ATP also induced an increase and a decrease in the expression of cyclin D1and p27kip1, respectively, in retinal progenitors of the NL. While the increase in the expression of cyclin D1 was observed when retinal explants were incubated for 3 h or longer periods of time, the decrease in the expression of p27kip1 was noticed only after 6 h incubation with ATP. Both effects were blocked by the P2 receptor antagonist PPADS. These data suggest that ATP induces cell proliferation in retinal explants by inducing late developing progenitors to progress from G1 to S phase of cell cycle.
The impact of information technology use on plant structure, practices, and performance: An exploratory study
Authors: Heim Gregory R. , Peng David Xiaosong
Published: October 2009

Firms have been investing millions of dollars on information technology (IT) in their manufacturing plants. However, the research literature is unclear about the extent and scope of the impact of IT use on plant operations. This study examines the impact of IT use on the structure, practices, and performance of manufacturing plants. Drawing on information systems and operations management literature, the study differentiates between plant IT use (i) at the process level, (ii) due to internal process integration, and (iii) due to customer and supplier collaboration, labeled as process intelligence, integration intelligence, and collaboration intelligence, respectively. The study also accounts for intelligence gathering due to statistical process control (SPC) practices. The proposed impacts of IT use are examined using data from a study sample of manufacturing plants from electronics, machinery and transportation component industries. Overall, the evidence suggests that SPC has a broader and more significant impact on many aspects of plant operations than the individual dimensions of IT use. However, the three dimensions of IT use do exhibit distinct effects on plant structure, practices, and performance. Process intelligence tends to be associated with plant size and productivity, while integration intelligence and collaboration intelligence tend to be associated with work practices related to increased organizational decentralization and a flexible technology focus.
Article Commentary: Going to the next level: Health care's evolving expectations for evidence
Authors:   Task Force of the Rhinology and Paranasal Sinus Committee, Marple Bradley F. , Stringer Scott P. , Batra Pete S. , Bhattacharyya Neil , Chiu Alexander G. , Citardi Martin J. , Han Joseph K. , Kern Robert C. , Kingdom Todd T. , Lane Andrew P. , Orlandi Richard R. , Ryan Matthew W. , Senior Brent A. , Stewart Michael G.
Published: October 2009

Rhinologic literature has historically relied on lower levels of evidence to make prescriptive recommendations for use of new technology and procedures. However, as the medical profession has moved to embrace the principles of evidence‐based medicine, expectations for minimum standards of evidence have risen. The resulting high‐quality efficacy outcomes data have become the linchpin of informed decision making by physicians, payers, and health care systems. While many challenges remain in this transition to higher evidence expectations, none are insurmountable. It has become the responsibility of the organized medical profession to play a role in influencing and supporting production of high‐quality outcomes research.
Pain after Spinal Cord Injury: A Review of Classification, Treatment Approaches, and Treatment Assessment
Authors: Cardenas Diana D. , Felix Elizabeth R.
Published: October 2009

Pain is a prevalent consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI) that can persist for years after the injury and can have a significant impact on physical and emotional function and quality of life. There are a variety of types of pain that may develop after a SCI, including those of primarily nociceptive origin and those of primarily neuropathic origin. Recommendations for diagnostic and treatment strategies have been varied in part because of the lack of a universal classification system and in part because of the biopsychosocial nature of pain. The most recent taxonomy for pain after SCI is described herein. Pain‐management strategies, including pharmacological, interventional, and psychological treatments, also are described. For neuropathic pain in SCI, anticonvulsant agents and tricyclic antidepressants often are tried, but these treatments have had limited success in many patients, and alternative interventions (eg, massage therapy, acupuncture, meditation) often are just as successful. Treatment of nociceptive pain after SCI often includes nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and acetaminophen, but correction of underlying etiologies and behavior adjustments also should be implemented if possible. An overview of self‐report pain questionnaires and scales is also presented to provide the clinician and researcher with a set of tools to evaluate the efficacy of pain interventions.
ON THE ORDER OF ARC-STABILIZERS IN ARC-TRANSITIVE GRAPHS
Authors: VERRET GABRIEL
Published: October 2009

Let p be a prime. We say that a transitive action of a group L on a set Ω is p-sub-regular if there exist x,y∈Ω such that 〈Lx,Ly〉=L and LYx≅ℤp, where Y =yLx is the orbit of y under Lx. Our main result is that if Γ is a G-arc-transitive graph and the permutation group induced by the action of Gv on Γ(v) is p-sub-regular, then the order of a G-arc-stabilizer is equal to ps−1 where s≤7, s≠6, and moreover, if p=2, then s≤5. This generalizes a classical result of Tutte on cubic arc-transitive graphs as well as some more recent results. We also give a characterization of p-sub-regular actions in terms of arc-regular actions on digraphs and discuss some interesting examples of small degree.
A STRUCTURE THEORY OF (−1,−1)-FREUDENTHAL KANTOR TRIPLE SYSTEMS
Authors: KAMIYA NORIAKI , MONDOC DANIEL , OKUBO SUSUMU
Published: October 2009

In this paper we discuss the simplicity criteria of (−1,−1)-Freudenthal Kantor triple systems and give examples of such triple systems, from which we can construct some Lie superalgebras. We also show that we can associate a Jordan triple system to any (ε,δ)-Freudenthal Kantor triple system. Further, we introduce the notion ofδ-structurable algebras and connect them to (−1,δ)-Freudenthal Kantor triple systems and the corresponding Lie (super)algebra construction.
EFFECT OF SOWING DENSITY AND SEEDBED TYPE ON YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS IN BAMBARA GROUNDNUT (VIGNA SUBTERRANEA) IN WOODLAND SAVANNAS OF COTE D'IVOIRE
Authors: KOUASSI N'. J. , ZORO BI I. A.
Published: October 2009

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is one of the most promising food legumes in Africa, due to its agronomic and nutritional potential. To take advantage of these attributes, several research programmes gathering agronomic and genetic data are being implemented throughout Africa. In this context, the response of yield and yield components to sowing density and seedbed type were tested in a three-year (2005, 2006 and 2007) field experiment using a bambara groundnut landrace with a semi-bunch growth habit. Three plant population densities: 13 900 plants ha−1, 62 500 plants ha−1 and 250 000 plants ha−1 were coupled with two seedbed types – raised and flat. A factorial trial using a split-plot design with three replicates was set up to analyse seed yield and plant biomass, as well as nine yield components. Sowing density influenced significantly (p < 0.05) seed yield (direct relationship) and most of the yield components (inverse relationship). The highest seed yields were observed on high-density plots (4.11 ± 1.05 ha−1). In contrast, seedbed type and year of experiment did not influence significantly the marketable yield and plant biomass (p > 0.05). This result has been attributed to the suitability of the amount and distribution of rainfall and temperature for the production of bambara groundnut at the target site. Based on the trend of yield response, cultivation of landraces of bambara groundnut characterized by a semi-bunch growth habit at high density on flat seedbeds was suggested in woodland savannas of Côte d'Ivoire to enhance seeds yield and reduce labour.
Pressure dressing after excision of preauricular sinus: suture transfixion of silicone sheets
Authors: Heo K W , Baek M J , Park S K
Published: October 2009

Objective:

After excision of a preauricular sinus, a head bandage compressive dressing is usually used to reduce dead space and to decrease the risk of recurrence. However, such use of a head bandage may cause various problems. We assessed a new method of compressive dressing, using suture transfixion of silicone sheets to the former sinus tract, following preauricular sinus excision.

Methods:

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of patients undergoing preauricular sinus excision in a tertiary referral centre over a five-year period. After excision of the preauricular sinus, patients underwent suture transfixion of silicone sheets. Post-operative outcomes were analysed.

Results:

The new dressing method was performed on 50 ears of 37 patients. The post-operative incidence of recurrence and haematoma formation was 4 and 2 per cent, respectively. Other problems possibly caused by head bandaging, such as headache, facial flushing, and nausea and/or vomiting, were not observed.

Conclusion:

Compressive dressing by suture transfixion of silicone sheets is safe and effective following preauricular sinus excision.
Airway compromise secondary to vagus nerve stimulator: case report and implications for otolaryngologists
Authors: Bhatt Y M , Hans P S , Belloso A
Published: October 2009

Introduction:

Vagus nerve stimulators are devices used in the management of patients with drug-refractory epilepsy unsuitable for resective or disconnective surgery. Implanted usually by neurosurgeons, these devices are infrequently encountered by otolaryngologists. Despite significant anti-seizure efficacy, side effects related to laryngopharyngeal stimulation are not uncommon.

Case report:

A 28-year-old man with a history of effective vagus nerve stimulator use presented with a cluster of seizures and respiratory distress associated with intermittent stridor. The duration of stridor corresponded to the period of vagus nerve stimulation. Endoscopy revealed forced adduction of the left vocal fold against a medialised right vocal fold. The device was switched off and the stridor immediately resolved.

Conclusion:

Airway compromise is an under-recognised side effect of vagus nerve stimulation. We describe the first known case of stridor and contralateral vocal fold palsy in a vagus nerve stimulator user. We highlight the need for better understanding amongst otolaryngologists of the laryngopharyngeal side effects of this technology.
The psychoses: Cluster 3 of the proposed meta-structure for DSM-V and ICD-11
Authors: Carpenter W. T. , Bustillo J. R. , Thaker G. K. , van Os J. , Krueger R. F. , Green M. J.
Published: October 2009

Background

In an effort to group mental disorders on the basis of etiology, five clusters have been proposed. Here we consider the validity of the cluster comprising selected psychotic and related disorders.

Method

A group of diagnostic entities classified under schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders in DSM-IV-TR were assigned to this cluster and the bordering disorders, bipolar (BD) and schizotypal personality disorders (SPD), were included. We then reviewed the literature in relation to 11 validating criteria proposed by the DSM-V Task Force Study Group.

Results

Relevant comparisons on the 11 spectrum criteria are rare for the included disorders except for schizophrenia and the two border conditions, BD and SPD. The core psychosis group is congruent at the level of shared psychotic psychopathology and response to antipsychotic medication. BD and SPD are exceptions in that psychosis is not typical in BD-II disorder and frank psychosis is excluded in SPD. There is modest similarity between schizophrenia and BD relating to risk factors, neural substrates, cognition and endophenotypes, but key differences are noted. There is greater support for a spectrum relationship of SPD and schizophrenia. Antecedent temperament, an important validator for other groupings, has received little empirical study in the various psychotic disorders.

Conclusions

The DSM-IV-TR grouping of psychotic disorders is supported by tradition and shared psychopathology, but few data exist across these diagnoses relating to the 11 spectrum criteria. The case for including BD is modest, and the relationship of BD to other mood disorders is addressed elsewhere. Evidence is stronger for inclusion of SPD, but the relationship with other personality disorders along the 11 criteria is not addressed and the absence of psychosis presents a conceptual problem. There are no data along the 11 spectrum criteria that are decisive for a cluster based on etiology, and inclusion of BD and SPD is questionable.
Where should bipolar disorder appear in the meta-structure?
Authors: Goldberg D. P. , Andrews G. , Hobbs M. J.
Published: October 2009

Background

The extant major psychiatric classifications, DSM-IV and ICD-10, are purportedly atheoretical and largely descriptive. Although this achieves good reliability, the validity of a medical diagnosis is greatly enhanced by an understanding of both risk factors and clinical history. In an effort to group mental disorders on the basis of risk factors and clinical manifestations, five clusters have been proposed. The purpose of this paper is to consider the position of bipolar disorder (BPD), which could be either with the psychoses, or with emotional disorders, or in a separate cluster.

Method

We reviewed the literature on BPD, unipolar depression (UPD) and schizophrenia in relation to 11 validating criteria proposed by the DSM-V Task Force Study Group, and then summarized similarities and differences between BPD and schizophrenia on the one hand, and UPD on the other.

Results

There are differences, often substantial and never trivial, for 10 of the 11 validators between BPD and UPD. There are also important differences between BPD and schizophrenia.

Conclusion

BPD has previously been classified together with UPD, but this is the least justifiable place for it. If it is to be recruited to a ‘psychotic cluster’, there are several important respects in which it differs from schizophrenia, so the cluster would have a division within it. The alternative would be to allow it to be in an intermediate position in a cluster of its own.
Scotus' voluntarist approach to the atonement reconsidered
Authors: Yang Andrew S.
Published: October 2009

Many studies criticise John Duns Scotus (c. 1265–1308) for reducing the atoning sacrifice of Christ to a merit of finite worth and making its atoning power completely dependent on the accepting will of God, such that if it pleased God, even a purely creaturely sacrifice of an angel or a saint would have sufficed to redeem the elect. This article discredits this sort of criticism by demonstrating that Scotus situates his argument for a finite worth of Christ's merit within the framework of his larger argument for the infinite sufficiency of Christ's merit. A cogent examination of the ways in which Scotus posits a merit of finite intrinsic worth and arrives at its infinitely sufficient atoning power reveals that only the merit of a God-man can achieve this sort of sufficiency and that the nature of Scotus' voluntarism that underlies his concept of divine acceptation is nowhere as radical as it is usually portrayed.
Putting the ‘extra’ back into Calvinism
Authors: Habets Myk
Published: October 2009

With a long and venerable history in both Catholic and Protestant traditions the doctrine represented by the termextra Calvinisticumhas fallen out of favour within contemporary theologies of the cross. Through an examination of the history of the doctrine and its constituent features the present article advocates the reclamation of the doctrine as a necessary component for a contemporary theology of the atonement, with special emphasis on the trinitarian dimensions of the death of God on the cross. Theextra Calvinisticumis then adopted to refute contemporary theologies of a suffering God.
Suffering, hope and forgiveness: the ubuntu theology of Desmond Tutu
Authors: Haws Charles G.
Published: October 2009

Blaise Pascal once said, ‘Knowing Jesus Christ strikes the balance [for theology] because he shows us both God and our wretchedness’. Indeed, the majesty of Christ is that in him the despair of wretchedness and the hope of God are held together. Theology often does not reflect this balance, leading towards either anthropocentrism or nihilism. The ubuntu theology of Desmond Tutu does, however, by proclaiming the inherent interconnectedness of humankind. Tested by the context of South African apartheid, this notion called ‘ubuntu’ counters segregation and violence with reconciliation and justice. It refuses to execute retribution upon transgressors, instead committing itself to re-membering the disinherited of Christ's inclusive body. Forgiveness is the only future for this body and, though it remains an aporia in the context of radical evils such as apartheid, it is the only way to achieve justice without economising balance. That is, only forgiveness can realise ubuntu because it progresses forward toward justice not backward toward vengeance. Ubuntu is the prophetic balance of a divine gift that transforms the wretchedness of human atrocities. It represents Tutu's attempt to realise the way of God in his context, an attempt from which all theologising can benefit.
Roots and routes in adult musical participation: investigating the impact of home and school on lifelong musical interest and involvement
Authors: Pitts Stephanie
Published: October 2009

This paper analyses a collection of musical life histories, drawn from 71 British respondents who have maintained a lifelong interest in music as regular concert-goers, amateur performers and/or music educators. These respondents reflect on the influences and opportunities which have contributed to their lifelong engagement in music, and in doing so illustrate the impact of changes in British music education and culture over the last 50 years. Particular analytical focus is placed here on the relative influence of home and school, on the ideal characteristics of each environment, and the relationship between them. The value of a long-term perspective on music education is debated, and conclusions drawn about the challenges to teachers and researchers that are evident from this study.
Conservatoire students' perceptions of Master Classes
Authors: Creech Andrea , Gaunt Helena , Hallam Susan , Robertson Linnhe
Published: October 2009

The aim of this research was to investigate the value and purpose of Master Classes, from the perspective of Conservatoire students. Thirty-seven UK Conservatoire students responded to a questionnaire, providing information about their prior experiences of Master Classes, the factors that they considered to be important in a successful Master Class and any possible barriers to learning in Master Classes. The students considered Master Classes to offer valuable performance opportunities, fresh ideas for approaching musical interpretation and technique and access to a professional community of practice. Performance anxiety was noted as a barrier to learning for those who performed in Master Classes and students raised several issues relating to the problematic notion of ‘participation’ as an audience member. Whilst the sample was clearly limited, these findings contribute to an understanding of how students might best be facilitated in capitalising on the opportunity to learn in Master Class contexts.
Modelling the impact of varicella vaccination on varicella and zoster
Authors: KARHUNEN M. , LEINO T. , SALO H. , DAVIDKIN I. , KILPI T. , AURANEN K.
Published: October 2009

It has been suggested that the incidence of herpes zoster may increase due to lack of natural boosting under large-scale vaccination with the varicella vaccine. To study the possibility and magnitude of such negative consequences of mass vaccination, we built a mathematical model of varicella and zoster epidemiology in the Finnish population. The model was based on serological data on varicella infection, case-notification data on zoster, and new knowledge about close contacts relevant to transmission of infection. According to the analysis, a childhood programme against varicella will increase the incidence of zoster by one to more than two thirds in the next 50 years. This will be due to increase in case numbers in the ⩾35 years age groups. However, high vaccine coverage and a two-dose programme will be very effective in stopping varicella transmission in the population.
An Archaeological Perspective on the Andean Concept of Camaquen: Thinking Through Late Pre-Columbian Ofrendas and Huacas
Authors: Bray Tamara L.
Published: October 2009

Ethnohistoric sources suggest that the indigenous inhabitants of Andean South America saw both people and things as animated or enlivened by a common vital force (camaquen). In approaching the subject of camaquen archaeologically, I attempt to place objects and their materiality at the analytical centre, rather than the normally privileged ethnohistoric or ethnographic data, in order to see what new insights into the nature of Pre-Columbian ontologies might be gained from ‘thinking through things’. In this, I follow recent theories premised on the idea that the traditional segregation of concepts and things may hinder understanding of alternative worlds. The study focuses specifically on the arrangements, relationality and referentiality between and among objects found in sacred and offering contexts dating to the Inca period.
Accounting for estimated IQ in neuropsychological test performance with regression-based techniques
Authors: TESTA S. MARC , WINICKI JESSICA M. , PEARLSON GODFREY D. , GORDON BARRY , SCHRETLEN DAVID J.
Published: October 2009

Regression-based normative techniques account for variability in test performance associated with multiple predictor variables and generate expected scores based on algebraic equations. Using this approach, we show that estimated IQ, based on oral word reading, accounts for 1–9% of the variability beyond that explained by individual differences in age, sex, race, and years of education for most cognitive measures. These results confirm that adding estimated “premorbid” IQ to demographic predictors in multiple regression models can incrementally improve the accuracy with which regression-based norms (RBNs) benchmark expected neuropsychological test performance in healthy adults. It remains to be seen whether the incremental variance in test performance explained by estimated “premorbid” IQ translates to improved diagnostic accuracy in patient samples. We describe these methods, and illustrate the step-by-step application of RBNs with two cases. We also discuss the rationale, assumptions, and caveats of this approach. More broadly, we note that adjusting test scores for age and other characteristics might actually decrease the accuracy with which test performance predicts absolute criteria, such as the ability to drive or live independently. (JINS, 2009, 15, 1012–1022.)
The utility of regression-based norms in interpreting the minimal assessment of cognitive function in multiple sclerosis (MACFIMS)
Authors: PARMENTER BRETT A. , TESTA S. MARC , SCHRETLEN DAVID J. , WEINSTOCK-GUTTMAN BIANCA , BENEDICT RALPH H. B.
Published: October 2009

The Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in Multiple Sclerosis (MACFIMS) is a consensus neuropsychological battery with established reliability and validity. One of the difficulties in implementing the MACFIMS in clinical settings is the reliance on manualized norms from disparate sources. In this study, we derived regression-based norms for the MACFIMS, using a unique data set to control for standard demographic variables (i.e., age, age2, sex, education). Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients (n = 395) and healthy volunteers (n = 100) did not differ in age, level of education, sex, or race. Multiple regression analyses were conducted on the performance of the healthy adults, and the resulting models were used to predict MS performance on the MACFIMS battery. This regression-based approach identified higher rates of impairment than manualized norms for many of the MACFIMS measures. These findings suggest that there are advantages to developing new norms from a single sample using the regression-based approach. We conclude that the regression-based norms presented here provide a valid alternative to identifying cognitive impairment as measured by the MACFIMS. (JINS, 2010, 16, 6–16.)
Graphesthesia: A test of graphemic movement representations or tactile imagery?
Authors: DRAGO V. , FOSTER P.S. , EDWARD D. , WARGOVICH B. , HEILMAN K.M.
Published: October 2009

Patients with corticobasal degeneration (CBG) often demonstrate agraphesthesia in the same hand they demonstrate apraxia. To recognize letters written in their hand subjects can develop a spatial representation and access graphemic representations. Alternatively, people can use movement working memory and match movement patterns to stored letter movement representations. To learn the method normally used without vision, normal subjects (12) had letters written on their palm either in the normal manner or in a reverse direction. If letters written on the hand are recognized by their spatial features (as when visually reading) direction should not influence letter recognition, but if letters written on the hand are recognized by movement patterns, then in the reverse condition recognition should be impaired. When letters were written normally there were no differences in error between the tactile and visual modality. When letters were written in reverse, however, normal subjects made more errors in the tactile than visual condition. Normally, people identify letters written on their hand by covertly copying (mirroring) the examiner and then access letter movement representations. This might explain why patients with CBG often have agraphesthesia associated with apraxia. (JINS, 2010, 16, 190–193.)