bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of school‐based intervention studies for the prevention or reduction of excess weight among Chinese children and adolescents
Authors: Li M. , Li S. , Baur L. A. , Huxley R. R.
Published: May 2008

The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of intervention studies in China aimed at the prevention or control of excess weight gain among children and adolescents. Two Chinese databases (The China Full Text Database and Wanfang Database) and two English databases (Medline and Meditext) were searched with keywords for intervention studies published between 1990 and 2006. Data were extracted on aspects of study quality, methodology and effectiveness of interventions. Quality assessment was conducted using a previously established assessment tool. Twenty‐two studies were included, of which 17 were conducted among overweight and/or obese children and/or adolescents. Interventions strategies varied across studies but the majority focused on improving the level of knowledge, physical activity levels and/or diet of overweight children and adolescents. Most studies reported a beneficial effect of the intervention with one or more of the study outcomes, but all of the studies had serious, or moderate, methodological weaknesses. None of the trials identified by this systematic review demonstrated convincing evidence of the efficacy of any single intervention for the prevention of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents from Mainland China. Future intervention trials should address the methodological weaknesses identified in this review.
A NEW AGENT MATCHING SCHEME USING AN ORDERED FUZZY SIMILARITY MEASURE AND GAME THEORY
Authors: Kebriaei Hamed , Majd Vahid Johari , Rahimi‐Kian Ashkan
Published: May 2008

In this paper, an agent matching method for bilateral contracts in a multi‐agent market is proposed. Each agent has a hierarchical representation of its trading commodity attributes by a tree structure of fuzzy attributes. Using this structure, the similarity between the trees of each pair of buyer and seller is computed using a new ordered fuzzy similarity algorithm. Then, using the concept of Stackelberg equilibrium in a leader–follower game, matchmaking is performed among the sellers and buyers. The fuzzy similarities of each agent with others in its personal viewpoint have been used as its payoffs in a bimatrix game. Through a case study for bilateral contracts of energy, the capabilities of the proposed agent‐based system are illustrated.
THE EFFECT OF NETWORK STRUCTURE ON DYNAMIC TEAM FORMATION IN MULTI‐AGENT SYSTEMS
Authors: Gaston Matthew E. , DesJardins Marie
Published: May 2008

Previous studies of team formation in multi‐agent systems have typically assumed that the agent social network underlying the agent organization is either not explicitly described or the social network is assumed to take on some regular structure such as a fully connected network or a hierarchy. However, recent studies have shown that real‐world networks have a rich and purposeful structure, with common properties being observed in many different types of networks. As multi‐agent systems continue to grow in size and complexity, the network structure of such systems will become increasing important for designing efficient, effective agent communities.

We present a simple agent‐based computational model of team formation, and analyze the theoretical performance of team formation in two simple classes of networks (ring and star topologies). We then give empirical results for team formation in more complex networks under a variety of conditions. From these experiments, we conclude that a key factor in effective team formation is the underlying agent interaction topology that determines the direct interconnections among agents. Specifically, we identify the property of diversity support as a key factor in the effectiveness of network structures for team formation. Scale‐free networks, which were developed as a way to model real‐world networks, exhibit short average path lengths and hub‐like structures. We show that these properties, in turn, result in higher diversity support; as a result, scale‐free networks yield higher organizational efficiency than the other classes of networks we have studied.
Cardiac Cephalalgia: Case Reports and Review
Authors: Wei J-H , Wang H-F
Published: May 2008

Diagnosis of myocardial infarction or acute coronary syndrome is difficult, especially in atypical presentation at an emergency department, and sometimes results in serious legal issues. Symptoms of atypical presentation include shortness of breath, dyspnoea on exertion, toothache, abdominal pain, back pain and throat pain. As of now, reports of a headache, especially exertional headache, as the only presentation of acute cardiac ischaemia are rare and only have case reports. We present two patients with a cardiac source of headache and analyse 32 patients with similar situations from MEDLINE search from 1966 to the present. Cardiac cephalalgia is benign in general, but potential risks for death should be considered. If the patient has increased risk of atherosclerosis with exertional headache, anginal headache should be highly suspected and further work-up should be undertaken.
Compromised store‐operated Ca2+ entry in aged skeletal muscle
Authors: Zhao Xiaoli , Weisleder Noah , Thornton Angela , Oppong Yaa , Campbell Rachel , Ma Jianjie , Brotto Marco
Published: May 2008

In aged skeletal muscle, changes to the composition and function of the contractile machinery cannot fully explain the observed decrease in the specific force produced by the contractile machinery that characterizes muscle weakness during aging. Since modification in extracellular Ca2+ entry in aged nonexcitable and excitable cells has been recently identified, we evaluated the functional status of store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in aged mouse skeletal muscle. Using Mn2+ quenching of Fura‐2 fluorescence and confocal‐microscopic imaging of Ca2+ movement from the transverse tubules, we determined that SOCE was severely compromised in muscle fibers isolated from aged mice (26–27 months) as compared with those from young (2–5 months) mice. While reduced SOCE in aged skeletal muscle does not appear to result from altered expression levels of STIM1 or reduced expression of mRNA for Orai, this reduction in SOCE is mirrored in fibers isolated from young mice null for mitsugumin‐29, a synaptophysin‐related protein that displays decreased expression in aged skeletal muscle. Our data suggest that decreased mitsugumin‐29 expression and reduced SOCE may contribute to the diminished intracellular Ca2+ homeostatic capacity generally associated with muscle aging.
Immigrant Settlement Patterns: The Role of Metropolitan Characteristics*
Authors: Baird Jim , Adelman Robert M. , Reid Lesley Williams , Jaret Charles
Published: May 2008

Immigration continues to change the social, economic, and political landscapes of urban America. Consequently, scholars, as well as the general public, are interested in the internal migration patterns of immigrants. In this research, we identify and explain the characteristics of metropolitan areas that have the strongest effects on the percentage change in the foreign‐born population between 1990 and 2000. Using lagged independent variables and a sample of 150 metropolitan areas, we find that settlement patterns among immigrants are diverging from traditional patterns. That is, those metropolitan areas that had moderately high levels of globalization and lower costs of living as well as lower disadvantage indicators (e.g., percentage poverty) in 1990, had larger increases in percentage foreign‐born between 1990 and 2000 compared to areas with lower levels of globalization and higher costs of living and disadvantage. These trends suggest the increasing importance of second‐tier metropolises such as Atlanta, Phoenix, and Las Vegas in understanding where immigrants settle.
Evidence for the Use of Botulinum Toxin in the Chronic Pain Setting—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Jeynes Louise C. , Gauci Charles A.
Published: May 2008

▪ Abstract:  A significant proportion of chronic pain is of musculoskeletal origin. Botulinum toxin (BTX) has been successfully used in the treatment of spasmodic torticollis, limb dystonia, and spasticity. Investigators have, thus, become interested in its potential use in treating many chronic pain conditions. Practitioners have used BTX, outside the product license, in the treatment of refractory myofascial pain syndrome and neck and low back pain (LBP). This article reviews the current evidence relating to chronic pain practice. There is evidence supporting the use of both BTX type A and type B in the treatment of cervical dystonias. The weight of evidence is in favor of BTX type A as a treatment in: pelvic pain, plantar fasciitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction associated facial pain, chronic LBP, carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain, and in complex regional pain syndrome and selected neuropathic pain syndromes. The weight of evidence is also in favor of BTX type A and type B in piriformis syndrome. There is conflicting evidence relating to the use of BTX in the treatment whiplash, myofascial pain, and myogenous jaw pain. It does appear that BTX is useful in selected patients, and its duration of action may exceed that of conventional treatments. This seems a promising treatment that must be further evaluated. ▪
Ultrasound‐Guided Steroid Injection for Obturator Neuralgia
Authors: Shankar Hariharan
Published: May 2008

▪ Abstract:  Obturator neuralgia (ON) presents with pain in the groin, medial thigh, and sometimes the medial aspect of the knee. The causes include trauma, obturator hernia, pelvic cancer, pelvic surgery, hip surgery, following pelvic fractures, endometriosis, retroperitoneal hematoma, pregnancy, and delivery. Ultrasound (US) guidance facilitates real‐time imaging, identification of vascular structures, and improves patient comfort in situations where nerve stimulation can be unpleasant. This is a case report of ON successfully treated with US‐guided steroid injection.

A 55‐year‐old man was referred to the pain clinic with groin pain and allodynia in the medial thigh and knee following a fall. He had tried multiple other therapies and none of them provided significant relief. Using a 10–5‐MHz multi‐frequency, 38‐mm linear array transducer, the obturator nerve was scanned in both longitudinal and transverse directions. Under real‐time imaging 10 mg of medroxy‐progesterone in a volume of 1 mL was injected. Following the injection, a small area of the medial side of knee was still tender to light touch. A second injection was placed inferiorly and provided pain relief for more than 5 months.

This successful demonstration of US guidance in ON may further encourage US guidance in pain clinic interventions. ▪
The Efficacy of Levobupivacaine, Ropivacaine, and Bupivacaine for Combined Psoas Compartment–Sciatic Nerve Block in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: De Leeuw Marcel A. , Dertinger Jürgen A. , Hulshoff Lenie , Hoeksema Martijn , Perez Roberto S. , Zuurmond Wouter W. , De Lange Jaap J.
Published: May 2008

▪ Abstract

Background and Objectives:  The aim of our study was to compare postoperative analgesic efficacy, and the extent of sensory and motor blockade of levobupivacaine, ropivacaine, and bupivacaine administered in a combined psoas compartment–sciatic nerve block (PCSNB) for total hip arthroplasty.

Methods:  Forty‐five patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty under general anesthesia combined with PCSNB, were randomly assigned to receive either 50 mL levobupivacaine 3 mg/mL, 50 mL ropivacaine 4.5 mg/mL or 50 mL bupivacaine 3 mg/mL with epinephrine. Postoperative, the pain intensity at rest, the degree of motor block (Modified Bromage Scale) and the extent of sensory block (pin prick test) were recorded at 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours following initial injection in a double blind fashion.

Results:  The postoperative pain intensity was low and did not differ between groups, except for a significantly lower pain intensity in group ropivacaine compared with group levobupivacaine at 4 hours. Five patients (11%), equally divided over three groups, needed parenteral rescue opiates postoperatively. The extent of sensory block was not different between the three groups. In each group the majority of patients showed no sensory block in dermatome L1. Group levobupivacaine initially showed the least motor impairment. Motor impairment was found to be significantly higher in bupivacaine group compared with both ropivacaine and levobupivacaine groups at 12 (P = 0.012) and 48 hours (P = 0.003).

Conclusions:  Levobupivacaine, bupivacaine and ropivacaine are equally effective for PCSNB in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Residual pain may be due to the lack of sensory block in dermatome L1, suggesting that modification of this technique should be considered for this type of surgery. ▪
Homo Economicus Meets G. H. Mead: A Contribution to the Critique of Economic Theory
Authors: Wilson David , Dixon William
Published: May 2008

Abstract.  The relation between economic behavior and morality remains a live issue within economics and cognate disciplines. The standard view among economists themselves has been that while moral positions (understood broadly) may motivate our behavior, they do not capacitate or enable it. On this view the figure of Homo economicus, representing the how as against the why of our actions, must be understood as resolutely amoral. In this article, we attempt to recover the logic of this position, as well as those of critics who would modify the standard view in some way. Although also critical of the conventional economics‐and‐ethics divide, we argue that Homo economicus would benefit from a more fundamental rethinking, one that takes account of the theory of the self and its acts, as developed by the social psychologist G. H. Mead. On a Meadian view the economic actor would neither have to grow additional capacities in order to coordinate with his or her fellows, as the evolutionary games theorist's agent has to do, nor depart or deviate from purposeful behavior, as does Homo sociologicus. On a Meadian view, economic capacity has to be more richly endowed than standard Homo economicus in order to do what it is supposed to do, but it is recognizably still a single, purposeful capacity.
From Self‐Interest Motives to Justice Motives: The Challenges of Some Experimental Results
Authors: Lopes Helena
Published: May 2008

Abstract. This article begins by presenting experimental evidence that remains unexplained by standard and utility‐extended economic models: experimental subjects tend to honor their promises even on occasions when an assessment of consequences asks them to defect; subjects voluntarily contribute to collective goods, and this contribution is highly conditional on others contributing as well; subjects evaluate and value the intentions behind actions as well as the consequences of actions. Arguments are sought for in moral philosophy that would more plainly explain the collected experimental evidence and that would help economists revise their explanatory frames. The hypothesis advanced is that the observed behavior may be interpreted as resulting from the moral strength of indignation and justice norms.
An Evaluation of Keynes's Projected Possibilities
Authors: Lin C.‐Y. Cynthia
Published: May 2008

Abstract.  At the onset of the Great Depression, John Maynard Keynes made some startlingly optimistic predictions about the economic possibilities his grandchildren might face a century later. Within the next 100 years, Keynes proclaimed, technological progress would solve the economic problem facing human beings, individuals would devote themselves to noneconomic pursuits instead, and no one would continue to strive for relative goods. Was Keynes right? This article examines each of Keynes's three main prophecies and concludes that, even though over 75 years have transpired since they were made, and even though they were founded in part on the belief held by most classical economists in the value of technological progress and economic growth, not one of Keynes's predictions has been realized.
Evaluating the Penetration of Capitalism in Postsocialist Moscow
Authors: Williams Colin C. , Round John
Published: May 2008

Abstract.  This article evaluates critically the meta‐narrative that capitalism is becoming totalizing and hegemonic. Recently, an emerging corpus of postdevelopment thought has begun to deconstruct this discourse, but only in relation to Western economies and the majority (third) world. To further contribute to this emerging critique, the aim is to analyze the degree to which capitalist economic practices have permeated postsocialist societies through a case study of Moscow. Based on face‐to‐face interviews with 313 households during 2005/06 concerning their work practices, a relatively shallow penetration of capitalism in this city is identified, with only a minority of households relying on the capitalist economy in particular, and the formal economy more generally, to secure their livelihood. The vast majority of the population is found to depend heavily on an array of noncapitalist economic practices; and capitalist and noncapitalist practices are identified as operating in tandem with, rather than in opposition to, each other. The outcome is a call to refute the universality of capitalist hegemony and to rethink the nature of economic development from a perspective that recognizes the persistence of economic pluralism.
One single dose of 200 μg of antenatal RhIG halves the risk of anti‐D immunization and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn in the next pregnancy
Authors: Koelewijn Joke M. , De Haas Masja , Vrijkotte Tanja G.M. , Bonsel Gouke J. , Van Der Schoot C. Ellen
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: The objective was the evaluation of the effect of the Dutch national routine antenatal RhIG (anti‐D) immunization prevention (RAADP) program comprising one single dose of 200 μg (1000 IU) of RhIG in the 30th week of pregnancy, restricted to women without a living child.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A nationwide historic control study was performed. All newly detected anti‐D–immunized para‐1 in 1999, 2002, and 2004 were included and classified on the basis of received prophylaxis during the first pregnancy: antenatal and postnatal versus only postnatal RhIG. The numbers of D– parae‐1 who delivered a D+ first child before the introduction (control group) or after the introduction (intervention group) of the RAADP were calculated from Vital Birth Statistics (8,700 and 12,000, respectively).

RESULTS: Fifty‐eight newly detected anti‐D immunizations in the first trimester were observed in the control group and 39 in the intervention group, which resulted in a significant reduction of the prevalence of new anti‐D immunizations from 0.67 percent (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.50%‐0.84%) to 0.31 percent (95% CI, 0.21%‐0.41%). No reduction was observed in anti‐D immunizations newly detected at the 30th‐week screening (0.25%). A nonsignificant risk reduction of the risk of severe hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) was found (0.23% vs. 0.10%). The numbers needed to treat to prevent one anti‐D–immunized pregnancy and one case of subsequent severe HDFN were 357 and 1255, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: RAADP of one single dose of 200 μg of RhIG in addition to postnatal RhIG (200 μg) halves the risk of anti‐D immunization and subsequent severe HDFN.
A clinical study on the feasibility of autologous cord blood transfusion for anemia of prematurity
Authors: Khodabux Chantal M. , Von Lindern Jeannette S. , Van Hilten Joost A. , Scherjon Sicco , Walther Frans J. , Brand Anneke
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: The objective was to investigate the use of autologous red blood cells (RBCs) derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB), as an alternative for allogeneic transfusions in premature infants admitted to a tertiary neonatal center.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: UCB collection was performed at deliveries of less than 32 weeks of gestation and processed into autologous RBC products. Premature infants requiring a RBC transfusion were randomly assigned to an autologous or allogeneic product. The primary endpoint was an at least 50 percent reduction in allogeneic transfusion needs.

RESULTS: Fifty‐seven percent of the collections harvested enough volume (≥15 mL) for processing. After being processed, autologous products (≥10 mL/kg) were available for 36 percent of the total study population and for 27 percent of the transfused infants and could cover 58 percent (range, 25%‐100%) of the transfusion needs within the 21‐day product shelf life. Availability of autologous products depended most on the gestational age. Infants born between 24 and 28 weeks had the lowest availability (17%). All products, however, would be useful in view of their high (87%) transfusion needs. Availability was highest (48%) for the infants born between 28 and 30 weeks. For 42 percent of the infants with transfusion needs in this group, autologous products were available. For the infants born between 30 and 32 weeks, autologous products were available for 36 percent of the infants. Transfusion needs in this group were, however, much lower (19%) compared to the other gestational groups.

CONCLUSION: Autologous RBCs derived from UCB could not replace 50 percent of allogeneic transfusions due to the low UCB volumes collected and subsequent low product availability.
Conditioning in 2 × 2 Tables
Authors: Proschan Michael A. , Nason Martha
Published: May 2008

Summary Two‐by‐two tables arise in a number of diverse settings in biomedical research, including analysis of data from a clinical trial with a binary outcome and gating methods in flow cytometry to separate antigen‐specific immune responses from general immune responses. These applications offer interesting challenges concerning what we should really be conditioning on—the total number of events, the number of events in the control condition, etc. We give several biostatistics examples to illustrate the complexities of analyzing what appear to be simple data.
Measuring Agreement of Multivariate Discrete Survival Times Using a Modified Weighted Kappa Coefficient
Authors: Guo Ying , Manatunga Amita K.
Published: May 2008

Summary Assessing agreement is often of interest in clinical studies to evaluate the similarity of measurements produced by different raters or methods on the same subjects. We present a modified weighted kappa coefficient to measure agreement between bivariate discrete survival times. The proposed kappa coefficient accommodates censoring by redistributing the mass of censored observations within the grid where the unobserved events may potentially happen. A generalized modified weighted kappa is proposed for multivariate discrete survival times. We estimate the modified kappa coefficients nonparametrically through a multivariate survival function estimator. The asymptotic properties of the kappa estimators are established and the performance of the estimators are examined through simulation studies of bivariate and trivariate survival times. We illustrate the application of the modified kappa coefficient in the presence of censored observations with data from a prostate cancer study.
Deposition of nickel, chromium, and cobalt on the skin in some occupations – assessment by acid wipe sampling
Authors: Lidén Carola , Skare Lizbet , Nise Gun , Vahter Marie
Published: May 2008

Background:  Nickel, chromium, and cobalt are important skin sensitizers. Better knowledge about skin exposure is needed for more efficient prevention. We have previously developed acid wipe sampling for assessment of skin exposure to metals.

Objectives:  To apply the acid wipe sampling technique in some occupations where intense contact with metallic items occurs and to gather experience for the design of future workplace studies.

Methods:  18 volunteers (carpenters, locksmiths, cashiers, and secretaries as controls) participated. They performed their normal tasks during a job session for exposure. Samples were taken from fingers and palms by acid wipe sampling, and analysis of metals was performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer.

Results:  The metals were detected in all samples, and the amount of nickel was larger than that of chromium and cobalt. Fingers were more exposed than palms. 8‐h exposure to nickel was calculated and was highest in locksmiths (mean 3.784 μg/cm2, range 1.846–5.028 μg/cm2) followed by carpenters, cashiers, and secretaries.

Conclusions:  The acid wipe sampling technique is suitable for studies of skin exposure to nickel, chromium, and cobalt in the workplace. The sampling efficiency of acid wipe sampling is high. The amounts of nickel deposited on skin in carpenters, locksmiths, and cashiers are judged capable of eliciting allergic contact dermatitis.
Occurrence and prognosis of hand eczema in the car industry: results from the PACO follow‐up study (PACO II)
Authors: Apfelbacher Christian J. , Radulescu Magda , Diepgen Thomas L. , Funke Ulrich
Published: May 2008

Background:  Only a few epidemiological studies on hand eczema (HE) in the metalworking industry have been conducted, and no study has attempted a long‐term follow‐up.

Objectives:  In the Prospective Audi Cohort (PACO) II follow‐up study, we aimed to estimate burden and prognosis of HE in a car industry setting (follow‐up > 10 years).

Patients/Methods:  Eligible participants were individuals who had been examined in the original PACO study (1990–1998) and had been followed through until the end of their apprenticeship (n = 1909). Participants were interviewed and underwent dermatological examination. An exposure assessment was carried out according to a pre‐defined algorithm.

Results:  The follow‐up rate was 78.3% (1494/1909). Mean follow‐up time was 13.3 [standard deviation 1.3] years. The period prevalence of HE in the follow‐up period was 21.0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 19.0–23.1%], yielding a cumulative incidence of 29.3% (95% CI 26.9–31.6%) in the entire study period. HE persisted after the end of apprenticeship in 40.0% (95% CI 33.3–46.7%) of subjects who had had HE during apprenticeship (n = 205). 18.0% (95% CI 15.9–20.1%) developed HE in the follow‐up period (n = 1289).

Conclusions:  Around 30% of subjects were affected by HE at least once during the study period. HE persisted in 40% of the participants affected during apprenticeship.
Hand eczema: causes, course, and prognosis I
Authors: Veien Niels K. , Hattel Thais , Laurberg Grete
Published: May 2008

Background:  Hand eczema is a common dermatosis. The course is often protracted. The prognosis is not well described.

Objective:  To describe in detail a consecutive cohort of hand eczema patients with regard to aetiology and morphology as well as the dynamics of the hand eczema.

Patients and Methods:  This prospective study included 522 consecutive patients (175 men and 347 women with hand eczema) seen in 1 year in a private practice of dermatology. 425 (81%) of the patients were patch tested in relation to the current study. Most of the remainder had been previously patch tested.

Results:  38% had mild dermatitis, 49% had dermatitis of moderate severity, and 11% had severe dermatitis. 23% had had dermatitis for more than 10 years. 33% had irritant contact dermatitis, 13% of the men and 20% of the women had allergic contact dermatitis, and 15% of the men and 16% of the women had atopic dermatitis. For 34% of the men and 29% of the women, the dermatitis was certainly or possibly occupational. There was no relationship to smoking.

Conclusions:  The majority of this cohort of hand eczema patients had long‐standing disease. Irritant contact dermatitis was the most common aetiological diagnosis.
A tool for scoring of acneiform skin eruptions induced by EGF receptor inhibition
Authors: Wollenberg Andreas , Moosmann Nicolas , Klein Elisabeth , Katzer Kerstin
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Acneiform skin eruptions are the most common side effect of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. The National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria allow for quick severity estimation of a patient, but are not suitable for monitoring the severity of the skin lesions over time, as needed for treatment studies. Here we present our scoring tool for acneiform skin eruptions, which is calculated from body involvement, facial involvement and clinical grading of the skin items erythema, papulation, pustulation and scaling/crusts. The final score is a number between 0 and 100.
Guided tissue regeneration may modulate gene expression in periodontal intrabony defects: a human study
Authors: Lima L. L. , Gonçalves P. F. , Sallum E. A. , Casati M. Z. , Nociti Jr F. H.
Published: May 2008

Background and Objective:  Guided tissue regeneration has been shown to lead to periodontal regeneration; however, the mechanisms involved remain to be clarified. The present study was carried out to assess the expression of genes involved in the healing process of periodontal tissues in membrane‐protected vs. nonprotected intrabony defects in humans.

Material and Methods:  Thirty patients with deep intrabony defects (≥ 5 mm, two or three walls) around teeth that were scheduled for extraction were selected and randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments: flap surgery alone (control group) or flap surgery plus guided tissue regeneration (expanded polytetrafluorethylene (e‐PTFE) membrane) (test group). Twenty‐one days later, the newly formed tissue was harvested and quantitatively assessed using the polymerase chain reaction assay for the expression of the following genes: alkaline phosphatase, receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand, osteoprotegerin, osteopontin, osteocalcin, bone sialoprotein, basic fibroblast growth factor, interleukin‐1, interleukin4, interleukin‐6, matrix metalloproteinase2 and matrix metalloproteinase9.

Results:  Data analysis demonstrated that mRNA levels for alkaline phosphatase, receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand, osteoprotegerin, osteopontin, bone sialoprotein, basic fibroblast growth factor, interleukin‐1, interleukin‐6, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and matrix metalloproteinase ‐9 were higher in the sites where guided tissue regeneration was applied compared with the control sites (p < 0.05), whereas osteocalcin mRNA levels were lower (p < 0.05). No difference was observed in interleukin‐4 mRNA levels between control and test groups.

Conclusion:  Within the limits of this study, it can be concluded that genes are differentially expressed in membrane barrier‐led periodontal healing when compared with flap surgery alone, and this may account for the clinical outcome achieved by guided tissue regeneration.
Trehalose synthase converts glycogen to trehalose
Authors: Pan Yuan‐Tseng , Carroll J. D. , Asano Naoki , Pastuszak Irena , Edavana Vineetha K. , Elbein Alan D.
Published: May 2008

Trehalose (α,α‐1,1‐glucosyl‐glucose) is essential for the growth of mycobacteria, and these organisms have three different pathways that can produce trehalose. One pathway involves the enzyme described in the present study, trehalose synthase (TreS), which interconverts trehalose and maltose. We show that TreS from Mycobacterium smegmatis, as well as recombinant TreS produced in Escherichia coli, has amylase activity in addition to the maltose ↔ trehalose interconverting activity (referred to as MTase). Both activities were present in the enzyme purified to apparent homogeneity from extracts of Mycobacterium smegmatis, and also in the recombinant enzyme produced in E. coli from either the M. smegmatis or the Mycobacterium tuberculosis gene. Furthermore, when either purified or recombinant TreS was chromatographed on a Sephacryl S‐200 column, both MTase and amylase activities were present in the same fractions across the peak, and the ratio of these two activities remained constant in these fractions. In addition, crystals of TreS also contained both amylase and MTase activities. TreS produced both radioactive maltose and radioactive trehalose when incubated with [3H]glycogen, and also converted maltooligosaccharides, such as maltoheptaose, to both maltose and trehalose. The amylase activity was stimulated by addition of Ca2+, but this cation inhibited the MTase activity. In addition, MTase activity, but not amylase activity, was strongly inhibited, and in a competitive manner, by validoxylamine. On the other hand, amylase, but not MTase activity, was inhibited by the known transition‐state amylase inhibitor, acarbose, suggesting the possibility of two different active sites. Our data suggest that TreS represents another pathway for the production of trehalose from glycogen, involving maltose as an intermediate. In addition, the wild‐type organism or mutants blocked in other trehalose biosynthetic pathways, but still having active TreS, accumulate 10‐ to 20‐fold more glycogen when grown in high concentrations (≥ 2% or more) of trehalose, but not in glucose or other sugars. Furthermore, trehalose mutants that are missing TreS do not accumulate glycogen in high concentrations of trehalose or other sugars. These data indicate that trehalose and TreS are both involved in the production of glycogen, and that the metabolism of trehalose and glycogen is interconnected.
Penile Constriction Devices: Case Report, Review of the Literature, and Recommendations for Extrication
Authors: Silberstein Jonathan , Grabowski Julia , Lakin Charles , Goldstein Irwin
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Penile constriction devices often present significant challenges to urologic surgeons. Failure to remove such devices can lead to significant ischemia and loss of tissue. Patients often present after several days of ischemia and swelling have developed.

Aim

This article reviews previously published data on penile constriction devices and strategies for their removal. Additionally, we present new methodologies for extrication.

Methods

A comprehensive review of the English language literature was performed using MEDLINE. “Penile incarceration” and “penile strangulation” were used as search terms, and a manual bibliographic review of cross-referenced items was performed. Publications prior to 1970 were excluded from our search.

Main Outcome Measures

Review of published literature on penile constriction devices and their removal.

Results

Penile incarceration is frequently described in the literature as an isolated case report or small series describing the approach of a single physician or group of physicians for dealing with these problems. Penile incarceration has been reported in a wide spectrum of age groups, with the incarcerating object most frequently placed for erotic or autoerotic purposes. While the most commonly reported devices causing incarceration are metal rings, higher-grade penile injuries are more frequently sustained by nonmetallic objects. Patients who present with incarceration after 72 hours are more likely to sustain higher-grade injuries than those who seek more timely treatment. Strategies for extrication depend on the type of device used, the length of time of incarceration, the patient's ability to remain calm, and the tools available to the presenting physicians.

Conclusion

Penile incarceration is a urologic emergency with potentially severe clinical consequences. With rapid intervention and removal of the foreign body, most patients do extremely well and need no further intervention. Removal of such devices can be challenging and often requires resourcefulness and a multidisciplinary approach.
Endoscopic Retrieval of a Penile Prosthesis' Rear-Tip Extender
Authors: Munk-Hartig Anne-Kathrin , Stübinger Sven Henrik , Jünemann Klaus-Peter , Van Der Horst Christof
Published: May 2008

Introduction

The renewal of penile prosthesis is a foreseeable intervention because of the limited survival time of the different implants. It usually becomes necessary simply for material fatigue after long-term regular use; in some cases, premature intervention might be necessary because of infection or other perioperative complications.

Aim

In the case presented here, the removal of a Dynaflex penile prosthesis showed a missing rear-tip extender on the right-hand tube.

Main Outcome Measures and Methods

A cavernoscopy of the right cavernous body was performed by using a conventional urethrocystoscope. The found rear-tip extender was extracted by using alligator forceps via the cystoscopic device.

Results

A new AMS CX hydraulic cavernous body prosthesis was successfully implanted. It has proven fully functional up to the current follow-up control.

Conclusions

This case shows that cavernoscopy is a gentle intraoperative procedure for diagnosing and removing material in penile prosthesis surgery.
A Mindfulness-Based Group Psychoeducational Intervention Targeting Sexual Arousal Disorder in Women
Authors: Brotto Lori A. , Basson Rosemary , Luria Mijal
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Despite their widespread prevalence, there are no existing evidence-based psychological treatments for women with sexual desire and arousal disorder. Mindfulness, the practice of relaxed wakefulness, is an ancient eastern practice with roots in Buddhist meditation which has been found to be an effective component of psychological treatments for numerous psychiatric and medical illnesses. In recent years, mindfulness has been incorporated into sex therapy and has been found effective for genital arousal disorder among women with acquired sexual complaints secondary to gynecologic cancer.

Aim

The aim of this study was to adapt an existing mindfulness-based psychoeducation (PED) to a group format for women with sexual desire/interest disorder and/or sexual arousal disorders unrelated to cancer.

Methods

Twenty-six women participated in three 90-minute sessions, spaced 2 weeks apart, with four to six other women. Group PED was administered by one mental health trained provider and one gynecologist with post graduate training and experience in sexual medicine.

Main Outcome Measures

Prior to and following the group, women viewed audiovisual erotic stimuli and had both physiological (vaginal pulse amplitude) and subjective sexual arousal assessed. Additionally, they completed self-report questionnaires of sexual response, sexual distress, mood, and relationship satisfaction.

Results

There was a significant beneficial effect of the group PED on sexual desire and sexual distress. Also, we found a positive effect on self-assessed genital wetness despite little or no change in actual physiological arousal, and a marginally significant improvement in subjective and self-reported physical arousal during an erotic stimulus. A follow-up comparison of women with and without a sexual abuse history revealed that women with a sexual abuse history improved significantly more than those without such history on mental sexual excitement, genital tingling/throbbing, arousal, overall sexual function, sexual distress, and on negative affect while viewing the erotic film. Moreover, there was a trend for greater improvement on depression scores among those with a sexual abuse history.

Conclusions

These data provide preliminary support for a brief, three-session group psychoeducational intervention for women with sexual desire and arousal complaints. Specifically, women with a history of sexual abuse improved more than women without such a history. Participant feedback indicated that mindfulness was the most effective component of the treatment, in line with prior findings. However, future compartmentalization trials are necessary in order to conclude this more definitively.
Low‐density Lipoprotein Apheresis in Children With Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Follow‐up to 21 Years
Authors: Palcoux Jean‐Bernard , Atassi‐Dumont Marielle , Lefevre Patrice , Hequet Olivier , Schlienger Jean‐Louis , Brignon Pierre , Roussel Bernard
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Twenty‐seven patients (14 girls, 13 boys) affected by familial hypercholesterolemia who had begun low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis treatment before the age of 15 were studied. The median age at diagnosis was 4 years and the blood LDL cholesterol level was 704 ± 163 mg/dL. Screening was performed for homozygous or double heterozygous mutations of the LDL cholesterol receptor gene and mutations were found in 24 of the patients. The mean age at the beginning of treatment was 8.5 years and the mean length of follow up was 12.6 years. The two main procedures used were direct adsorption of lipoproteins and dextran sulfate cellulose adsorption. Nine patients experienced anaphylactic reactions due to bradykinin and six had to have their treatment changed. The LDL cholesterol level before the session was lowered by 45 ± 11% of the value at diagnosis. The LDL cholesterol reduction in a session was 72 ± 10%. Tendinous xanthomas disappeared or diminished dramatically in 62% of the children. In 22 patients no cardiovascular event occurred during LDL apheresis treatment. Three had angina pectoris; two others had surgical management of aortic stenosis, but no clinical manifestations. Seven children had normal cardiovascular pictures while on treatment. Eleven had abnormalities of the aortic root or coronary arteries, which in six cases had appeared before treatment; the other five children did not undergo prior cardiac evaluation. In five children the abnormalities appeared during treatment. Based on these data, LDL‐apheresis can be recommended for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, even in young children, with good efficiency on biological parameters, cutaneous lesions and cardiovascular events.
Serum Pro‐hepcidin as an Indicator of Iron Status in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Tsuchihashi Daisuke , Abe Takaya , Komaba Hirotaka , Fujii Hideki , Hamada Yasuhiro , Nii‐Kono Tomoko , Tanaka Motoko , Fukagawa Masafumi
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Hepcidin has recently been recognized as a hormone essential to the negative regulation of iron. Synthesis of hepcidin is increased by iron overload or inflammation, and decreased by iron deficiency, anemia and erythropoietin. Dialysis patients frequently suffer the effects of both hepcidin increasing and decreasing factors. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, pro‐hepcidin in dialysis patients while minimizing or manipulating these factors. We measured the serum pro‐hepcidin in 23 hemodialysis patients without inflammation (the HD group) and 10 age‐matched healthy volunteers. Those patients in the HD group were assigned to an iron‐deficiency group (the ID group) or a non‐iron deficiency subgroup (non‐ID group). The HD group was followed up for two months. Iron therapy was performed in the ID group during the follow‐up period. At the end of this time we evaluated the influence of iron therapy. Pro‐hepcidin was similar in the HD groups and the healthy controls (295.1 [241.9, 413.7] vs. 301.7 [280.5, 383.5] ng/mL; not significant) despite the presence of hepcidin‐decreasing factors. Pro‐hepcidin in the ID group was significantly lower than in the non‐ID group (262.6 [233.1, 295.1] vs. 359.2 [282.3, 446.5] ng/mL; P < 0.05). In patients newly acquiring ID during follow‐up without iron supplementation, pro‐hepcidin fell significantly (from 444.7 [389.4, 470.1] to 299.8 [233.4, 330.4] ng/mL; P < 0.05). Pro‐hepcidin also showed an increase after ID was treated with iron administration (from 246.9 [205.5, 329.1] to 344.6 [290.1, 377.9] ng/mL; not significant). Pro‐hepcidin could serve as a marker for functional iron deficiency and disordered iron utilization in HD. Underlying mechanisms and improvements in measurement techniques will require additional investigation.
Calcium Channel Antagonists Reduce Restenosis After Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty of an Arteriovenous Fistula in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Doi Shigehiro , Masaki Takao , Shigemoto Kenichiro , Harada Satoru , Yorioka Noriaki
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for stenosis of hemodialysis fistulas is associated with a high incidence of restenosis, and improvement of the patency rate after PTA is greatly needed. In addition, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB), calcium channel antagonists (CCA) and antiplatelet agents (APA) are commonly administered to most hemodialysis patients. This study retrospectively examined the effect of these medications on the incidence of restenosis after angioplasty for hemodialysis fistulae. The subjects were 92 patients—54 with anastomotic stenosis of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and 38 with stenosis of the draining veins of an arteriovenous graft (AVG)—who underwent angioplasty between January 2001 and December 2003. The patency period was defined as the interval from the first to the second angioplasty or surgical reconstruction. We excluded patients who received angioplasty two or more times. The effect of each drug on the patency of the AVF or AVG was assessed by the Kaplan‐Meier method with the log‐rank test and multiple logistic regression analysis. The group receiving CCA therapy showed a higher patency rate for both an AVF and an AVG. Although multiple logistic regression analysis also showed that a CCA reduces restenosis independently in an AVF, there was no significant correlation between a CCA and patency in an AVG. Treatment with an ARB and an APA was not associated with significantly higher patency rates for either an AVF or AVG. A CCA may reduce the incidence of restenosis after percutaneous intervention for stenosis of an AVF.
Effect of One‐year Oral α‐Tocopherol Administration on the Antioxidant Defense System in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Antoniadi Georgia , Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Kakasi Eleni , Kartsios Charalambos , Passadakis Ploumis , Vargemezis Vassilis
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Oxidative stress is increased in hemodialysis (HD) patients and contributes to the increased morbidity and mortality in this population. Vitamin E is an antioxidant agent. In the present study the effect of prolonged oral α‐tocopherol administration on the antioxidant defense system was evaluated. The antioxidant factors plasma total antioxidant status (TAS), red blood cell superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity were evaluated with spectrometry in 27 HD patients. Measurements were performed before and after oral administration of α‐tocopherol at a dose of 500 mg/d for a one‐year period. Twenty HD patients received a placebo and 22 healthy volunteers served as controls. TAS was increased in HD patients. No difference was detected in SOD and GPX activity between HD patients and healthy volunteers. Tocopherol administration induced a significant decrease in TAS and SOD activity. Levels of GPX activity remained unaffected. All the evaluated factors remained stable in the HD patients receiving a placebo. Prolonged oral α‐tocopherol administration in HD patients induces a decrease in some components of the antioxidant defense system, raising the possibility for a pro‐oxidative role of vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant agent, but it is also known to have pro‐oxidant action under special conditions that can be encountered in HD patients.
PSR J1410-6132: a young, energetic pulsar associated with the EGRET source 3EG J1410-6147
Authors: O'Brien J. T. , Johnston S. , Kramer M. , Lyne A. G. , Bailes M. , Possenti A. , Burgay M. , Lorimer D. R. , McLaughlin M. A. , Hobbs G. , Parent D. , Guillemot L.
Published: May 2008

We present the discovery of PSR J1410-6132, a 50-ms pulsar found during a high-frequency survey of the Galactic plane, using a seven-beam 6.3-GHz receiver on the 64-m Parkes radio telescope. The pulsar lies within the error box of the unidentified Energetic Gamma Ray Experiment Telescope (EGRET) source 3EG J1410-6147, has a characteristic age of 26 kyr and a spin-down energy of 1037 erg s-1. It has a very high dispersion measure of 960 ± 10 cm-3 pc and the largest rotation measure of any pulsar, RM =+2400 ± 30 rad m-2. The pulsar is very scatter-broadened at frequencies of 1.4 GHz and below, making pulsed emission almost impossible to detect. Assuming a distance of 15 kpc, the pulsar's spin-down energy and a γ-ray efficiency factor of ∼10 per cent is sufficient to power the γ-ray source. We therefore believe that we have identified the nature of 3EG J1410-6147. This new discovery suggests that deep targeted high-frequency surveys of inner-galaxy EGRET sources could uncover further young, energetic pulsars.