bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic comparison of inhaled fixed combination vs. the free combination of beclomethasone and formoterol pMDIs in asthmatic children
Authors: Chawes Bo L. K. , Piccinno Annalisa , Kreiner‐Møller Eskil , Vissing Nadja H. , Poorisrisak Porntiva , Mortensen Li , Nilson Erik , Bisgaard Amalie , Dossing Anna , Deleuran Maja , Skytt Nanna L. , Samandari Nasim , Sergio Francesco , Ciurlia Giorgia , Poli Gianluigi , Acerbi Daniela , Bisgaard Hans
Published: September 2012

Aim

The fixed combination of beclomethasone (BDP) and formoterol pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) (Foster®, Chiesi Farmaceutici) is being developed in the lower strength (BDP/formoterol: 50/6 μg) to provide an appropriate dosage for children with asthma. The aim of this work was to investigate the systemic bioavailability of beclomethasone‐17‐monoproprionate (B17MP, the active metabolite of BDP) and formoterol after single inhalation of Foster® pMDI 50/6 μg vs. the free combination of BDP and formoterol pMDIs in asthmatic children.

Methods

Children aged 5–11 years old inhaled BDP 200 μg and formoterol 24 μg as fixed vs. free combination in an open label, randomized, two way crossover single dose study. Blood was collected pre‐dose up to 8 h post‐dose for pharmacokinetic evaluation (AUC(0,t), AUC(0,∞), AUC(0,0.5 h, Cmax, tmax, t1/2). Pharmacodynamics included heart rate, plasma potassium, urinary glucose and cortisol excretion. Peak expiratory flow and adverse events were monitored.

Results

Twenty subjects were evaluable. The systemic exposure of B17MP and formoterol administered as fixed combination did not exceed the free combination: B17MP AUC(0,t) (pg ml−1 h) ratio test : reference (90% CI), 0.81 (0.697, 0.948) and formoterol AUC(0,t) (pg ml−1 h) ratio test : reference 0.97 (0.85, 1.10). All pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic end points showed non‐superiority in favour of the test drug. One adverse event (vertigo) occurred but was not considered treatment‐related.

Conclusion

BDP and formoterol pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects are non‐superior after administration of the two actives as fixed vs. the free combination in 5–11‐year‐old asthmatic children.
Effects of previous growth hormone excess and current medical treatment for acromegaly on cognition
Authors: Brummelman Pauline , Koerts Janneke , Dullaart Robin P. F. , van den Berg Gerrit , Tucha Oliver , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , van Beek André P.
Published: September 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (12): 1317–1324

Background  In untreated acromegaly patients, decreased cognitive functioning is reported to be associated with the degree of growth hormone (GH) and IGF‐1 excess. Whether previous GH excess or current medical treatment for acromegaly specifically affects cognition remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare cognitive functioning of patients who are treated for acromegaly with patients with non‐functioning pituitary adenomas (NFA). In addition, we assessed the influence of prolonged medical treatment after initial transsphenoidal surgery on cognition.

Design  In this cross‐sectional study, 74 patients participated, who were treated for acromegaly (n = 50; median [interquartile range] age: 53 [45–65] years) or NFA (n = 24; age: 63 [59–70] years). The NFA patients were selected for a high likelihood of normal GH secretion based on an IGF‐1 z‐score within the normal range (> −2) and zero or one axis substituted. Of the acromegaly patients, 28 had achieved remission, while 22 were biochemically controlled with long‐acting somatostatin analogues and/or pegvisomant. Memory and executive functioning were assessed by the 15 Words Test and the Ruff Figural Fluency Test, and reported as z‐scores.

Results  The total patient group scored significantly poorer than the reference population on memory and executive functioning (P < 0·001). However, cognitive test performance was not significantly different between acromegaly patients with a persistent disease, acromegaly patients in remission and NFA patients.

Conclusion  The total patient group scored worse compared with reference populations. We found no association between previous GH excess and cognition. In addition, current medical treatment for GH excess in acromegaly was not related to memory and executive functioning.
Interventions for preventing and reducing the use of physical restraints in long‐term geriatric care – a Cochrane review
Authors: Möhler Ralph , Richter Tanja , Köpke Sascha , Meyer Gabriele
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to prevent and reduce the use of physical restraints in older people requiring long‐term nursing care.

Background.  Physical restraints are commonly used in geriatric long‐term care. However, they are associated with adverse outcomes. Therefore, freedom from physical restraints should be the aim of high‐quality nursing care.

Design.  Systematic review of randomised controlled trials.

Methods.  This review followed the methods of the Cochrane Handbook of systematic reviews of interventions. The systematic search (September 2009) covered the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group’s Specialized Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and LILACS.

Results.  Six cluster‐randomised controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. All studies investigated educational approaches targeting nursing staff. In addition, two studies offered consultation, two guidance and one support and free access to technical aids. Five studies examined nursing home residents and one study residents in group dwelling units. No studies in community settings were included. Overall, the methodological quality of studies was low. Their results were inconsistent. One study with good methodological quality in the nursing home setting documented an increase in physical restraints use in both groups, while the other four studies with lower quality found reduced use of physical restraints in the intervention group. The single study in group dwelling units found no change in physical restraints use in the intervention group but a significant increase in the control group.

Conclusions.  There is insufficient evidence supporting the effectiveness of educational interventions targeting nursing staff for preventing or reducing the use of physical restraints in geriatric long‐term care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Our findings indicate that educational programmes targeting nursing staff might not be effective in reducing the use of physical restraints in geriatric long‐term care. It remains unclear which components should be included in educational programmes aiming to reduce physical restraints.
Oceanographic drivers of offspring abundance may increase or decrease reproductive variance in a temperate marine fish
Authors: Lotterhos Katie E. , Markel Russell W.
Published: September 2012

In species that reproduce into uncertain environments, the relationship between mean reproductive success (the abundance of new recruits) and the variance in reproductive success (whether adults contribute disproportionally more offspring) may not be straightforward because of stochastic environmental processes that create high variance in reproductive success among adults. In this study, we investigated the relationships between oceanography, reproductive success and reproductive variance in the black rockfish, Sebastes melanops, a long‐lived temperate reef fish with pelagic larvae. We quantified black rockfish recruitment, genetic diversity and growth rates from otolith microstructure over 5 years (2005–2009) during which oceanographic conditions differed. We used cross‐correlations to determine windows of time during which oceanographic variables were significantly correlated with the resulting abundance or genetic diversity of recruits. We found that warmer ocean temperatures were positively correlated with the abundance of recruits, as well as the effective number of breeders. In contrast, the strength of coastal upwelling during settlement was positively correlated with the annual abundance of new recruits, but was negatively correlated with the effective number of breeders. Larval growth rates were explained substantially more by temperature than by upwelling and suggested that temperature affected survival through growth, while upwelling affected survival through transport. Our results indicated that cold ocean temperatures and intense upwelling caused sweepstakes‐like processes to operate on black rockfish populations, despite high abundances of recruits. We propose that a decoupling of the mean and variance in reproductive success may be characteristic of organisms that reproduce into uncertain environments.
Adult deaths and the future: a cause‐specific analysis of adult deaths from a longitudinal study in rural Tanzania 2003–2007
Authors: Narh‐Bana S. A. , Chirwa T. F. , Mwanyangala M. A. , Nathan R.
Published: September 2012

Objectives  To determine patterns and risk factors for cause‐specific adult mortality in rural southern Tanzania.

Methods  The study was a longitudinal open cohort and focused on adults aged 15–59 years between 2003 and 2007. Causes of deaths were ascertained by verbal autopsy (VA). Cox proportion hazards regression model was used to determine factors associated with cause‐specific mortality over the 5‐year period.

Results  Thousand three hundred and fifty‐two of 65 548 adults died, representing a crude adult mortality rate (AMR) of 7.3 per 1000 person years of observation (PYO). VA was performed for 1132 (84%) deaths. HIV/AIDS [231 (20.4%)] was the leading cause of death followed by malaria [150 (13.2%)]. AMR for communicable disease (CD) causes was 2.49 per 1000 PYO, 1.21 per 1000 PYO for non‐communicable diseases (NCD) and 0.53 per 1000 PYO for accidents/injury causes. NCD deaths increased from 16% in 2003 to 24% in 2007. High level of education was associated with a reduction in the risk of dying from NCDs. Those with primary education (HR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49, 0.92) and with education beyond primary school (HR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.40) had lower mortality than those who had no formal education. Compared with local residents, in‐migrants were 1.7 (95% CI: 1.37, 2.11) times more likely to die from communicable disease causes.

Conclusion  NCDs are increasing as a result of demographic and epidemiological transitions taking place in most African countries including Tanzania and require attention to prevent increased triple disease burden of CD, NCD and accident/injuries.
Indicators of quality use of medicines in South‐East Asian countries: a systematic review
Authors: Nguyen H. T. , Wirtz V. J. , Haaijer‐Ruskamp F. M. , Taxis K.
Published: September 2012

Objectives  To identify indicators of quality use of medicines used in South‐East Asian region.

Methods  A systematic review was conducted searching MEDLINE, Embase and The International Network for Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) and The World Health Organization (WHO) website. Original studies or reports carried out in the South‐East Asian region, explicitly using indicators to measure quality use of medicines, and published between January 2000 and July 2011 were included.

Results  A total of 17 studies conducted in 7 of 11 countries in South‐East Asia were included. WHO indicators focusing on general medication use in health facilities were most widely used (10 studies). Twelve studies used non‐WHO indicators for measuring quality use of medicines in clinical areas (geriatrics and obstetrics) or specific diseases, such as diarrhoea and pneumonia. In five studies, WHO indicators were used along with non‐WHO indicators. There was little information available about validity, reliability and feasibility of the non‐WHO indicators. The majority of indicators measured process rather than structure or outcome. There were very few indicators addressing non‐communicable diseases.

Conclusions  A limited number of studies have been published explicitly using indicators of quality use of medicines across South‐East Asia. Importantly, existing indicators need to be complemented with valid, reliable and feasible indicators related to non‐communicable diseases, particularly those with a high financial burden to meet the current medical challenges in the region.
Re‐appraisal of negative emotions in cocaine dependence: dysfunctional corticolimbic activation and connectivity
Authors: Albein‐Urios Natalia , Verdejo‐Román Juan , Asensio Samuel , Soriano‐Mas Carles , Martínez‐González José M. , Verdejo‐García Antonio
Published: September 2012

Cocaine dependence is associated with pronounced elevations of negative affect and deficient regulation of negative emotions. We aimed to investigate the neural substrates of negative emotion regulation in cocaine‐dependent individuals (CDI), as compared to non‐drug‐using controls, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during a re‐appraisal task. Seventeen CDI abstinent for at least 15 days and without other psychiatric co‐morbidities and 18 intelligence quotient‐matched non‐drug‐using controls participated in the study. Participants performed the re‐appraisal task during fMRI scanning: they were exposed to 24 blocks of negative affective or neutral pictures that they should Observe (neutral pictures), Maintain (sustain the emotion elicited by negative pictures) or Suppress (regulate the emotion elicited by negative pictures through previously trained re‐appraisal techniques). Task‐related activations during two conditions of interest (Maintain>Observe and Suppress>Maintain) were analyzed using the general linear model in SPM8 software. We also performed psychophysiological interaction (PPI) seed‐based analyses based on one region from each condition: the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC—Maintain>Observe) and the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG—Suppress>Maintain). Results showed that cocaine users had increased right dlPFC and bilateral temporoparietal junction activations during Maintain>Observe, whereas they showed decreased right IFG, posterior cingulate cortex, insula and fusiform gyrus activations during Suppress>Maintain. PPI analyses showed that cocaine users had increased functional coupling between the dlPFC and emotion‐related regions during Maintain>Observe, whereas they showed decreased functional coupling between the right IFG and the amygdala during Suppress>Maintain. These findings indicate that CDI have dysfunctional corticolimbic activation and connectivity during negative emotion experience and re‐appraisal.
Developmental synchronization of male and female gametophytes in Ginkgo biloba and its neck mother cell division prior to fertilization
Authors: Zhang Zhongming , Clayton Sarah C. , Cui Keming , Lee Chenglee
Published: September 2012

This study investigated male and female gametophytes in Ginkgo biloba, while a droplet of fluid was present in the fertilization chamber and found that the central cell, the generative cell and the neck mother cell divided simultaneously prior to fertilization. In male gametophytes, the generative cell divided to yield two sperm cells. Concomitantly, the two neck mother cells of the archegonium increased in size then divided asymmetrically resulting in two big cover cells and two small base cells. Each cell had a fixed end in direct contact with an adjacent jacket cell and a free end overlapping its counterpart. This unique arrangement could allow for their free ends to swing into the fertilization chamber as a result of the force from the interior of the archegonium where a polar periclinal division had occurred to produce a canal cell and an egg. The subsequent withdrawal of the content of the archegonium may facilitate the entry of sperm into the archegonium. The neck apparatus closed after the fertilization occurred. The concurrence of the above divisions and the delicate structure of neck apparatus suggest that the gametophytes undergo a synchronization process to become receptive at the time of fertilization. However, the formation of neck cells and the opening time of neck apparatus of the archegonia within the same ovule were slightly different, which could lead to the formation of zygotes at a temporally distinct interval. The earlier formed zygote may progress as the only mature embryo in the ovule.
Fatigue crack growth prediction models for metallic materials
Authors: MACHNIEWICZ T.
Published: September 2012

Deterministic models developed to predict fatigue crack growth in metallic materials are considered with special emphasis on approaches suitable for variable amplitude load histories. Part I gives a concise review of available models and their assessment based on reported in the literature comparisons between predicted and observed results. It is concluded that the so‐called strip yield model based on the plasticity induce crack closure mechanism is a most versatile predictive tool convenient to use in the case of mode I crack growth under arbitrary variable amplitude loading. Part II of the paper is focused on the strip yield model and its predictive capabilities. Implementations of this type prediction approach reported in the literature are reviewed. It is shown that decisions regarding the constraint factor conception, a choice of the crack driving force parameter, the crack growth rate description and various numerical details can have a profound effect on the model results and the prediction quality.
Long‐term outcomes of salvage radical cystectomy for recurrent urothelial carcinoma of the bladder following partial cystectomy
Authors: Bruins Harman M. , Wopat Ross , Mitra Anirban P. , Cai Jie , Miranda Gus , Skinner Eila C. , Daneshmand Siamak
Published: September 2012

Study Type – Therapy (outcomes)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Data on the oncological outcomes in patients undergoing salvage cystectomy for recurrent disease following bladder‐sparing treatment is limited and mostly based on case reports.

We present the clinical outcomes and prognostic factors in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for recurrent disease following partial cystectomy with long‐term follow‐up.

OBJECTIVE

To report the clinical outcomes and prognostic factors in patients undergoing salvage radical cystectomy (sRC) for recurrent urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder following partial cystectomy (PC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1971 and 2011, a total of 2290 patients underwent radical cystectomy for UC of the bladder, including 72 patients (3.1%) who underwent sRC following PC.

Clinical and pathological data at the time of both PC and sRC were collected.

Median follow‐up time after sRC was 10.9 years. Overall survival and recurrence‐free survival were the primary outcomes of interest.

Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors after sRC.

RESULTS

The median time from PC to sRC was 1.6 years. Median age at sRC was 64 years. Peri‐operative mortality was 2.8%.

After sRC, 44 patients (61.2%) had pathologically organ‐confined disease, 14 patients (19.4%) extravesical disease and 14 patients (19.4%) lymph node positive disease.

Five‐year recurrence‐free survival and overall survival following sRC were 56% and 41%, respectively.

On multivariate analysis, the presence of pathological tumor stage ≥pT3a (hazard ratio 6.86, P < 0.001) and the presence of lymph node metastases (hazard ratio 8.78, P < 0.001) were associated with increased risk of recurrence after sRC.

CONCLUSIONS

sRC can provide prolonged survival following failure of PC.

Prognosis, however, is highly dependent on pathological tumour stage and nodal status at sRC.

Only 15% of patients with locally advanced recurrent disease were salvaged by sRC.
Prostate cancer: germline prediction for a commonly variable malignancy
Authors: Bambury Richard M. , Gallagher David J.
Published: September 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease and biomarkers to predict its incidence and subsequent clinical behaviour are needed to tailor screening, prevention and therapeutic strategies. Rare mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2 and HOXB13 can affect prostate cancer incidence and/or clinical behaviour. Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more common genetic variations that explain an estimated 20% of familial prostate cancer risk.

In this review, we focus on the potential of germline genetic variation to provide biomarkers for prostate cancer screening, prevention and management. We discuss how germline genetics may have a role in treatment selection if reliable pharmacogenetic predictors of efficacy and toxicity can be identified. We have outlined possible mechanisms for including germline investigation in future prostate cancer clinical trials.

OBJECTIVES

Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease and biomarkers to predict its incidence and subsequent clinical behaviour are needed to tailor screening, prevention and therapeutic strategies.

In this review we focus on the potential of germline genetic variation to provide these biomarkers.

METHODS

We review the published literature on germline genetics in prostate cancer and examine the possibility of including germline genetic biomarkers in future prostate cancer clinical trials.

RESULTS

Rare mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2 and HOXB13 can affect prostate cancer incidence and/or clinical behaviour.

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more common genetic variations that explain an estimated 20% of familial prostate cancer risk.

Germline genetics may have a role in treatment selection, if reliable pharmacogenetic predictors of efficacy and toxicity can be identified.

CONCLUSION

This rapidly emerging area of prostate cancer research may provide answers to current clinical conundrums in the prostate cancer treatment paradigm. We have outlined possible mechanisms for including germline investigation in future prostate cancer clinical trial design.
Nurse delivered lifestyle interventions in primary health care to treat chronic disease risk factors associated with obesity: a systematic review
Authors: Sargent G. M. , Forrest L. E. , Parker R. M.
Published: September 2012

Nurses in primary health care (PHC) provide an increasing proportion of chronic disease management and preventive lifestyle advice. The databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsychINFO were searched and the articles were systematically reviewed for articles describing controlled adult lifestyle intervention studies delivered by a PHC nurse, in a PHC setting. Thirty‐one articles describing 28 studies were analysed by comparison group which revealed: (i) no difference of effect when the same intervention was delivered by a PHC nurse compared to other health professionals in PHC (n = 2); (ii) the provision of counselling delivered by a PHC nurse was more effective than health screening (n = 10); (iii) counselling based on behaviour change theory was more effective than the same dose of non‐behavioural counselling when at least three counselling sessions were delivered (n = 3). The evidence supports the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions delivered by nurses in PHC to affect positive changes on outcomes associated with the prevention of chronic disease including: weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, dietary and physical activity behaviours, patient satisfaction, readiness for change and quality of life. The strength of recommendations is limited by the small number of studies within each comparison group and the high risk of bias of the majority of studies.
Governing Future Radicals in Europe
Authors: de Goede Marieke , Simon Stephanie
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  This article analyses European initiatives to counter radicalisation and recru‐itment as a practice of governing that works preemptively through civil society and semi‐public spaces. Since the London and Madrid bombings, the EU agenda in this domain is substantial and ambitious. At the same time, proposals are embraced by member states to various degrees and materialise in local settings and concrete programmes in different ways. We propose to regard radicalisation as an assemblage of governing that is mobilised through particular threat representations, knowledge practices, training programmes and strategies for intervention. This lens allows for the simultaneous recognition of national differentiations, the power and reach of “Europe”, and the tensions, fluid relations and alignments that are forged in counter‐radicalisation conceptualisation and practice. In so doing, the motivation behind our research is to make strange the idea of radicalisation itself, which has been fully embraced and mobilised as a problem of governance across Europe.
Associations among Maternal Behavior, Delay of Gratification, and School Readiness across the Early Childhood Years
Authors: Razza Rachel A. , Raymond Kimberly
Published: September 2012

This study examined the developmental pathways from maternal behavior to school readiness within a sample of 1007 children, with a specific focus on the mediating role of delay of gratification (DoG). Maternal behavior across the first 36 months of age was explored as a predictor of children's DoG at 54 months as well as their behavioral and academic competence in kindergarten. Results support sensitivity as a predictor of children's DoG and indicate significant associations between DoG and teacher‐reported externalizing behavior, social skills, and academic skills. Moreover, DoG partially mediated the associations between maternal sensitivity and school readiness skills, with the highest percentage of mediation reported for social skills. Findings indicate maternal sensitivity and DoG as potential targets for efforts aimed at enhancing school readiness among young children.
White matter volume is decreased in the brain of patients with neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Chanson J.‐B. , Lamy J. , Rousseau F. , Blanc F. , Collongues N. , Fleury M. , Armspach J.‐P. , Kremer S. , de Seze J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory disease involving predominantly the spinal cord and optic nerves. Whether patients with NMO have a loss in white or grey matter (GM) volumes remains to be determined.

Methods

Thirty patients with NMO, 30 healthy subjects matched for age and gender, 21 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 20 patients with a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) were studied. We applied a SIENAX post‐treatment software. We compared white matter (WM) and GM volumes between groups and explored correlations of changes in NMO patients with age, gender, duration, disease severity, visual acuity and T2 hyperintensities. We also performed a voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) analysis to identify the regions affected by loss of volume.

Results

White matter volume was significantly reduced in patients with NMO (764.4 ± 58.3 cm3) compared to healthy subjects (843.1 ± 49.3 cm3) (P < 0.001), whereas no difference was observed for the GM. Patients with CIS also presented an elective atrophy of WM and MS an atrophy of both WM and GM. We did not find any predictive factors of brain atrophy. The decrease in WM volume in NMO was noted even in the absence of visible MRI hypersignals. The VBM analysis found a few regions of WM atrophy (corpus callosum and optic radiations, P < 0.005, uncorrected) and a few regions of GM atrophy (thalamus and prefrontal cortex, P < 0.001, uncorrected).

Conclusion

These results suggest a significant brain involvement in NMO, especially an involvement of WM which appears not to be limited to secondary degeneration after spinal cord and optic nerve damage.
Estimating the lifetime economic burden of Parkinson's disease in Singapore
Authors: Zhao Y. J. , Tan L. C. S. , Au W. L. , Heng D. M. K. , Soh I. A. L. , Li S. C. , Luo N. , Wee H. L.
Published: September 2012

Background and purpose

We aimed to estimate the lifetime cost of Parkinson's disease (PD) from the societal perspective.

Methods

A convenience sample of English or Chinese‐speaking patients with PD was recruited from a PD and Movement Disorders Centre in Singapore to complete a financial burden questionnaire. Sociodemographic and clinical data were retrieved from hospital databases. Markov cohort model analysis was performed (cycle length, 1‐year; duration, death or reached 100 years old). Patients were assumed to progress from one Markov state to the next state or death without skipping states or regressing. All model parameters were based on published local data.

Results

In 195 patients with PD (median age: 68.9, male: 51.8%), the simulated lifetime cost of PD was Singapore Dollar (SGD) 60 487 (EUR purchasing power parity 56 253) per patient. Direct medical, non‐medical and indirect cost accounted for 18.8%, 12.8% and 68.4% of total lifetime cost, respectively. The top three components of total lifetime cost were productivity losses (67.6%), pharmacotherapy (11.4%) and home care (8.7%). One‐way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analyses revealed that estimates were sensitive to cost at H&Y stage 1, 2 and 2.5 and productivity losses.

Conclusions

The lifetime cost of PD is evaluated for the first time. This cost is substantial and comparable to the lifetime cost of intracerebral haemorrhage in at least one study. Our study identified several priority areas for research and policy formulation: reducing productivity losses, reducing cost of pharmacotherapy, avoiding hospitalization and reducing home care cost.
Foundation species influence trait‐based community assembly
Authors: Schöb Christian , Butterfield Bradley J. , Pugnaire Francisco I.
Published: September 2012

Here, we incorporate facilitation into trait‐based community assembly theory by testing two mutually compatible facilitative mechanisms: changes in the environmental filter, causing either an increase in the range of trait values (i.e. a range expansion effect) and/or a shift in trait distributions (i.e. a range shift effect); and changes in trait spacing, suggesting an effect on niche differentiation.

We analyzed the distribution of three functional traits – leaf dry matter content, specific leaf area and lateral spread – of plant communities dominated by a cushion‐forming foundation species at four sites differing in elevation and aspect.

We found support for environmental filtering and niche differentiation mechanisms by cushions, with filtering effects (in particular range shifts) increasing with environmental severity at higher elevation. The effect size of cushions on trait distribution was similar to that of environmental gradients caused by elevation and aspect. The consideration of intraspecific trait variability improved the detection of cushion effects on trait distributions.

Our results highlight the importance of facilitation in the modification of taxonomic and functional diversity of ecological communities, and indicate that facilitation can occur through combined effects on environmental filtering and niche differentiation, with strong environmental context dependence of each mechanism.
Mechanical Characterisation of Metals by Indentation Tests: An Experimental Verification Study for On‐site Applications
Authors: Bolzon G. , Molinas B. , Talassi M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Mechanical characterisation techniques have been recently proposed, which use as main information source the geometry of the residual imprint left on metal surfaces by hardness or instrumented indentation tests. Relevant identification procedures have been developed but the problem has been investigated, so far, mainly from a methodological point of view, exploiting pseudo‐experimental data. This contribution presents the results of a verification study based on the real deformation measurements, collected from tests performed at scales consistent with those of structural applications. It is shown that the recovered mechanical properties compare satisfactorily well with those resulting from traditional tensile tests.
Psychophysiology of Adolescent Peer Relations I: Theory and Research Findings
Authors: Murray‐Close Dianna
Published: September 2012

Developmental psychologists have become increasingly interested in how psychophysiological processes relate to adolescent peer functioning. This review discusses advances in the study of the psychophysiology of adolescent peer relations, with a focus on how the autonomic and neuroendocrine systems relate to antisocial behavior, victimization, and peer social status (i.e., dominance, likeability, and popularity). The theoretical and psychological significance assigned to psychophysiological measures is discussed to provide a framework for adolescent peer researchers interested in incorporating these measures into their programs of research. Next, evidence that physiological arousal predicts peer‐based behaviors and that experiences with peers may alter the functioning of physiological systems is reviewed. Throughout, the motivational, regulatory, and emotional processes thought to underlie these associations are highlighted.
Psychophysiology of Adolescent Peer Relations II: Recent Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Murray‐Close Dianna
Published: September 2012

Researchers have made significant progress in the investigation of how physiological measures can inform the study of adolescent peer functioning, including peer processes involving antisocial behavior, victimization, and peer social status. This paper highlights how the inclusion of physiological processes in research studies can address several critical questions regarding adolescent peer relations, with a particular emphasis on (1) developmental processes; (2) subtypes of adolescent peer relations; (3) gender differences; (4) biosocial interactions; and (5) the role of within‐person variability. In addition, several important directions for future research, including longitudinal studies assessing bidirectional effects and the incorporation of additional indices of peer functioning and additional psychophysiological systems, are discussed.
PLANNING MAIL SURVEYS: A MANAGERIAL MODEL
Authors: Comer James M. , Brymer Robert E.
Published: September 2012

Typically the market research manager faced with implementing a multiple‐wave mail survey has certain requirements in terms of response rate, quality, and representativeness. The existing research literature provides some excellent insights into the effects of certain Wave 1 response stimuli. Unfortunately, very little research has been conducted on post‐Wave 1 stimuli, and no research has been done on multiple‐wave managerial strategy. The authors have developed a prototypic managerial planning model for evaluating various mail survey strategies over multiple‐response waves.

Subject Areas: Marketing Management and Marketing Research.
Education: MRP/GT: A FRAMEWORK FOR PRODUCTION PLANNING AND CONTROL OF CELLULAR MANUFACTURING
Authors: Hyer Nancy Lea
Published: September 2012

American industry typically uses material requirements planning (MRP) for manufacturing control. This paper presents production planning and control procedures based on group technology (GT), which is used in British manufacturing. A translation between these ideas and the American approach is made, and it is suggested that a combination of MRP and GT is viable. The problems that arise, especially in the areas of lot‐sizing and sequencing/scheduling, and their possible solutions are discussed. Since increased adoption of GT is expected within the next decade, an intensified research effort is warranted in these and other areas so that existing MRP systems can be modified or extended to handle cellular manufacturing control problems.

Subject Areas: Material Requirements Planning and Production/Operations Management.
The Impact of Mispricing and Asymmetric Information on the Price Discount of Private Placements of Common Stock
Authors: Glegg Charmaine , Harris Oneil , Madura Jeff , Ngo Thanh
Published: September 2012

The price discount on privately placed stock is large and can vary substantially among firms. While earlier studies attribute price discounts on privately placed stock to illiquidity and costs of gathering information, we offer a more complete explanation. We find that firms exhibiting higher overvaluation have significantly larger price discounts in private stock sales. We also find that higher levels of asymmetric information about the issuing firm and about the stock market environment at the time of the private placement cause more pronounced discounts in the offer price. Our analysis also shows that post‐issue abnormal returns following private placements are higher when discounts are less pronounced.
The Persistent Puzzle of Corporate Capital Structure: Current Challenges and New Directions
Authors: Denis David J.
Published: September 2012

This paper is the keynote address from the Eastern Finance Association's 2012 meeting in Boston. I assert that, despite a substantial amount of work and much progress in the capital structure field, traditional models do a remarkably poor job of explaining the dynamics of observed capital structures. New approaches that focus on the firm's intertemporal access to capital appear to represent the most promising avenues for yielding fresh insights.
Pharmacologic Rate versus Rhythm‐Control Strategies in Atrial Fibrillation: An Updated Comprehensive Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: CHATTERJEE SAURAV , SARDAR PARTHA , LICHSTEIN EDGAR , MUKHERJEE DEBABRATA , AIKAT SHAMIK
Published: September 2012

Background: In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), ventricular rate control with medications has been found to be noninferior in preventing clinical events, compared to a strategy converting patients to sinus rhythm and maintaining it with medications. Guidelines have accepted rate control as an acceptable therapeutic option. Most of the prior studies excluded patients without significant left ventricular dysfunction, or permanent AF.

Methods: The authors searched the PubMed, CENTRAL, and EMBASE databases for randomized controlled trials from 1966 to 2011. Trials included were direct head‐to‐head comparisons of rate‐ and rhythm‐control strategy using pharmacological means. The primary outcome assessed was risk of all‐cause mortality. We also assessed other pooled clinical endpoints using a random effects model (Mantel‐Haenszel) between rate and rhythm‐control strategies.

Results: Ten studies (total N = 7,867) met inclusion/exclusion criteria. In‐hospital mortality was not different between groups (P = 0.31). The rates of stroke, systemic embolism, worsening heart failure, myocardial infarction, and bleeding were also similar. However, rates of rehospitalization were much lower with a rate‐control strategy (P = 0.007). An exploratory analysis in patients younger than 65 years revealed a rhythm‐control strategy was superior to rate control in the prevention of all‐cause mortality (P = 0.0007).

Conclusions: This systematic review suggests no difference in clinical outcomes with a rate or rhythm‐control strategy with AF. However, rehospitalization rates appear to be lower with pharmacological rate control for all ages, while finding support for rhythm control in younger patients.

(PACE 2013; 36:122–133)
Prospective Evaluation of Defibrillation Threshold and Postshock Rhythm in Young ICD Recipients
Authors: RADBILL ANDREW E. , TRIEDMAN JOHN K. , BERUL CHARLES I. , WALSH EDWARD P. , ALEXANDER MARK E. , WEBSTER GREGORY , CECCHIN FRANK
Published: September 2012

Background:

Adaptation of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) systems to the needs of pediatric and congenital heart patients is problematic due to constraints of vascular and thoracic anatomy. An improved understanding of the defibrillation energy and postshock pacing requirements in such patients may help direct more tailored ICD therapy. We describe the first prospective evaluation of defibrillation threshold (DFT) and postshock rhythm in this population.

Methods:

We prospectively studied patients ≤60 kg at time of ICD intervention. DFTs were obtained using a binary search protocol with three VF inductions. Postshock pacing was programmed using a stepwise protocol, lowering the rate prior to each VF induction.

Results:

Twenty patients were enrolled: 11 had channelopathy, five congenital heart disease, and four cardiomyopathy. The median age was 16 years, median weight 48 kg. Twelve patients had a transvenous high‐voltage coil; eight had pericardial +/− subcutaneous coil(s). Median DFT was 7 J (range 3–31 J); 19/20 patients had DFT ≤15 J and all patients <25 kg had DFT ≤9 J (n = 6). There was no difference in DFT between patients with transvenous versus pericardial +/− subcutaneous coils (median 7 J vs 6 J, P = 0.59). No patient with normal atrioventricular conduction prior to defibrillation required postshock pacing (n = 16). There were no adverse events.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that many pediatric ICD patients have low DFTs and adequate postshock escape rhythm. This may help determine appropriate parameters for future design of pediatric‐specific ICDs. (PACE 2012;35:1487–1493)
“The Silence Itself Is Enough of a Statement”: The Day of Silence and LGBTQ Awareness Raising
Authors: Woolley Susan W.
Published: September 2012

This ethnographic study of a high school gay–straight alliance club examines unintended consequences of silence during the Day of Silence, a day of action aimed at addressing anti‐LGBTQ bias in schools. While this strategy calls for students to engage in intentional silences to raise awareness of anti‐LGBTQ bias, it does not necessarily lead others to address harassment or silences around gender and sexuality. Rather, silence makes students more defenseless in the face of verbal harassment. [LGBTQ youth, homophobia, harassment, Day of Silence, gay–straight alliance]
Access, Status, and Representation: Some Reflections from Two Ethnographic Studies of Elite Schools
Authors: Gaztambide‐Fernández Rubén A. , Howard Adam
Published: September 2012

In this article, we use our experiences to demonstrate the limits of the “studying up” metaphor to capture the complexity of the dynamics involved in doing research on groups that occupy positions of power within social hierarchies. The article focuses on different facets of the research process, alternating between our individual narratives and a shared discussion of the significance of our experience for thinking about and doing research within the particular context of elite schools. [elite schools, ethnography, subjectivity, ethical issues].
The Fabric of Thought: Priming Tactile Properties During Reading Influences Direct Tactile Perception
Authors: Brunyé Tad T. , Walters Eliza K. , Ditman Tali , Gagnon Stephanie A. , Mahoney Caroline R. , Taylor Holly A.
Published: September 2012

The present studies examined whether implied tactile properties during language comprehension influence subsequent direct tactile perception, and the specificity of any such effects. Participants read sentences that implicitly conveyed information regarding tactile properties (e.g., Grace tried on a pair of thick corduroy pants while shopping) that were either related or unrelated to fabrics and varied in implied texture (smooth, medium, rough). After reading each sentence, participants then performed an unrelated rating task during which they felt and rated the texture of a presented fabric. Results demonstrated that the texture properties implied in sentences influence direct tactile perception. Specifically, after reading about a smooth or rough texture, subsequent fabric ratings became notably smoother or rougher, respectively. However, we also show that there was some specificity to these effects: Fabric‐related sentences elicited more specific and interactive effects on subsequent ratings. Together, we demonstrate that under certain circumstances, language comprehension can prime tactile representations and affect direct tactile perception. Results are discussed with regard to the nature and scope of multimodal mental simulation during reading.
High Fidelity Case‐based Simulation Debriefing: Everything You Need to Know
Authors: Hart Danielle , McNeil Mary Ann , Griswold‐Theodorson Sharon , Bhatia Kriti , Joing Scott
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19: 1084–1085 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

In this 30‐minute talk, the authors take an in‐depth look at how to debrief high‐fidelity case‐based simulation sessions, including discussion on debriefing theory, goals, approaches, and structure, as well as ways to create a supportive and safe learning environment, resulting in successful small group learning and self‐reflection. Emphasis is placed on the “debriefing with good judgment” approach. Video clips of sample debriefing attempts, highlighting the “dos and don’ts” of simulation debriefing, are included. The goal of this talk is to provide you with the necessary tools and information to develop a successful and effective debriefing approach. There is a bibliography and a quick reference guide in Data Supplements S1 and S2 (available as supporting information in the online version of this paper).

The video is located here: https://vimeo.com/33991081

password is perls
Validation of a Clinical Prediction Model for Early Admission to the Intensive Care Unit of Patients With Pneumonia
Authors: Labarère José , Schuetz Philipp , Renaud Bertrand , Claessens Yann‐Erick , Albrich Werner , Mueller Beat
Published: September 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:993–1003 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The Risk of Early Admission to the Intensive Care Unit (REA‐ICU) index is a clinical prediction model that was derived based on 4,593 patients with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) for predicting early admission to the intensive care unit (ICU; i.e., within 3 days following emergency department [ED] presentation). This study aimed to validate the REA‐ICU index in an independent sample.

Methods:  The authors retrospectively stratified 850 CAP patients enrolled in a multicenter prospective randomized trial conducted in Switzerland, using the REA‐ICU index, alternate clinical prediction models of severe pneumonia (SMART‐COP, CURXO‐80, and the 2007 IDSA/ATS minor severity criteria), and pneumonia severity assessment tools (the Pneumonia Severity Index [PSI] and CURB‐65).

Results:  The rate of early ICU admission did not differ between the validation and derivation samples within each risk class of the REA‐ICU index, ranging from 1.1% to 1.8% in risk class I to 27.1% to 27.6% in risk class IV. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.70 to 0.83) and 0.80 (95% CI = 0.77 to 0.83) in the validation and derivation samples, respectively. In the validation sample, the REA‐ICU index performed better than the pneumonia severity assessment tools, but failed to demonstrate an accuracy advantage over alternate prediction models in predicting ICU admission.

Conclusions:  The REA‐ICU index reliably stratifies CAP patients into four categories of increased risk for early ICU admission within 3 days following ED presentation. Further research is warranted to determine whether inflammatory biomarkers may improve the performance of this clinical prediction model.