bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An exploratory study of software process improvement implementation risks
Authors: Niazi Mahmood
Published: May 2011

Software process improvement (SPI) initiatives have been around for many years, yet many companies are still facing SPI implementation problems. The objective of this exploratory research is to gain an in‐depth understanding of risks that can undermine SPI implementation from the perspective of software development practitioners.

Interviews were conducted as the main approach of data collection from 34 SPI practitioners. Interviews were recorded and subsequently transcribed. The interview transcripts were systematically scrutinised to identify the major themes for SPI implementation. The identified themes were noted down and compared with the notes made during the interviews to ascertain that the former are indeed a true reflection of the discussion in the interviews. This two‐step process also verified that the transcription process had not changed the original data generated in the interviews.

Five SPI risks were identified from the interview data: organisational politics, lack of support, lack of defined SPI implementation methodology, lack of awareness and lack of resources that are generally considered critical by Australian practitioners. The results also reveal the similarities and the differences in the risks identified by different group of practitioners (i.e. developers, managers and senior managers), different type of organisations (i.e. small–medium and large) and organisations with mature and immature software development processes. Practitioners identify SPI risks based on previous SPI implementation experience. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
POET: a scripting language for applying parameterized source‐to‐source program transformations
Authors: Yi Qing
Published: May 2011

We present POET, a scripting language designed for applying advanced program transformations to code in arbitrary programming languages as well as building ad hoc translators between these languages. We have used POET to support a large number of compiler optimizations, including loop interchange, parallelization, blocking, fusion/fission, strength reduction, scalar replacement, SSE vectorization, among others, and to fully support the code generation of several domain‐specific languages, including automatic tester/timer generation, and automatically translating a finite‐state‐machine‐based behavior modeling language into C++/ Java code. This paper presents key design and implementation decisions of the POET language and show how to use various language features to significantly reduce the difficulty of supporting programmable compiler optimization for high performance computing and supporting ad hoc code generation for various domain‐specific languages. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laboratory materials: Affordances or constraints?
Authors: Jordan Rebecca C. , Ruibal‐Villasenor Maria , Hmelo‐Silver Cindy E. , Etkina Eugenia
Published: May 2011

Laboratory instruction is critical to the understanding of biology and is a central piece of biological sciences instruction. Although much investigation has focused on the content of biology laboratory exercises, we contend that understanding the extent to which the laboratory materials can aid or limit experimental investigation is of equal importance. In this study, therefore, we investigate the role of timing and availability of laboratory equipment in the context of two different laboratory exercises. We use both case study and an experimental approach to investigate how laboratory materials guide the planning, context, creativity, and timing of ideas shared among students. Our data support the notion that providing students with laboratory equipment before students plan and consider different experimental approaches can constrain students' ideas and encourage tool‐focused solutions to experimental design tasks. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 48: 1010–1025, 2011
Rwandan Surgical and Anesthesia Infrastructure: A Survey of District Hospitals
Authors: Notrica Michelle R. , Evans Faye M. , Knowlton Lisa Marie , Kelly McQueen K. A.
Published: May 2011

Background

In low‐income countries, unmet surgical needs lead to a high incidence of death. Information on the incidence and safety of current surgical care in low‐income countries is limited by the paucity of data in the literature. The aim of this survey was to assess the surgical and anesthesia infrastructure in Rwanda as part of a larger study examining surgical and anesthesia capacity in low‐income African countries.

Methods

A comprehensive survey tool was developed to assess the physical infrastructure of operative facilities, education and training for surgical and anesthesia providers, and equipment and medications at district‐level hospitals in sub‐Saharan Africa. The survey was administered at 21 district hospitals in Rwanda using convenience sampling.

Results

There are only nine Rwandan anesthesiologists and 17 Rwandan surgeons providing surgical care for a population of more than 10 million. The specialty‐trained Rwandan surgeons and anesthesiologists are practicing almost exclusively at referral hospitals, leaving surgical care at district hospitals to the general practice physicians and nurses. All of the district hospitals reported some lack of surgical infrastructure including limited access to oxygen, anesthesia equipment and medications, monitoring equipment, and trained personnel.

Conclusions

This survey provides strong evidence of the need for continued development of emergency and essential surgical services at district hospitals in Rwanda to improve health care and to comply with World Health Organization recommendations. It has identified serious deficiencies in both financial and human resources—areas where the international community can play a role.
Identification and Ruminal Outflow of Long‐Chain Fatty Acid Biohydrogenation Intermediates in Cows Fed Diets Containing Fish Oil
Authors: Kairenius Piia , Toivonen Vesa , Shingfield Kevin J.
Published: May 2011

The abundance of 20‐ to 24‐carbon fatty acids in omasal digesta of cows fed grass silage‐based diets supplemented with 0 (Control) and 250 g/day of fish oil (FO) was examined to investigate the fate of long‐chain unsaturated fatty acids in the rumen. Complimentary argentation thin‐layer chromatography and gas‐chromatography mass‐spectrometry analysis of fatty acid methyl esters and corresponding 4,4‐dimethyloxazoline derivatives prepared from fish oil and omasal digesta enabled the structure of novel 20‐ to 22‐carbon fatty acids to be elucidated. Compared with the Control, the FO treatment resulted in the formation and accumulation of 27 novel 20‐ and 22‐carbon biohydrogenation intermediates containing at least one trans double bond and the appearance of cis‐14 20:1, 20:2n‐3, 21:4n‐3 and 22:3n‐6 not contained in fish oil. No conjugated ≥20‐carbon fatty acids were detected in Control or FO digesta. In conclusion, fish oil in the diet results in the formation of numerous long‐chain biohydrogenation intermediates in the rumen of lactating cows. Comparison of the intake and flow of 20‐, 21‐ and 22‐carbon fatty acids at the omasum in cows fed the Control and FO treatments suggests that the first committed steps of 20:5n‐3, 21:5n‐3 and 22:6n‐3 hydrogenation in the rumen involve the reduction and/or isomerisation of double bonds closest to the carboxyl group.
Dissecting systemic control of metabolism and aging in the NAD World: The importance of SIRT1 and NAMPT‐mediated NAD biosynthesis
Authors: Imai Shin-ichiro
Published: May 2011

Many countries are facing social and economic problems due to increased elderly demographics. With these demands, it is now critical to understand the fundamental regulatory mechanism for aging and longevity in mammals. Our studies on the mammalian NAD‐dependent deacetylase SIRT1 and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT)‐mediated systemic NAD biosynthesis led us to propose a comprehensive model for the systemic regulatory network connecting metabolism and aging, termed the “NAD World”. In this article, I will discuss the importance of SIRT1 and NAMPT‐mediated NAD biosynthesis in the NAD World and the system dynamics of this hierarchical network for the connection between metabolism and aging.
Human NK receptors: From the molecules to the therapy of high risk leukemias
Authors: Moretta Lorenzo , Locatelli Franco , Pende Daniela , Sivori Simona , Falco Michela , Bottino Cristina , Mingari Maria Cristina , Moretta Alessandro
Published: May 2011

Natural killer cells are important players of the innate immunity. In humans, they express HLA‐class I‐specific inhibitory receptors including the allotypic‐specific KIR and various activating receptors. In most instances, in an autologous setting NK cells do not kill self cells. In contrast, in an allogeneic setting as the haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation to cure high risk leukemias, donor‐derived NK cells may express inhibitory KIR that are not engaged by the HLA‐class I alleles (KIR ligands) expressed by recipient cells. Such “alloreactive” NK cells may be responsible for the eradication of leukemia blasts escaping the preparative regimen, residual host dendritic cells and T lymphocytes, thus preventing leukemia relapse, GvHD and graft rejection, respectively. These NK‐mediated effects result in a sharp improvement of the estimated 5 years survival.
Detecting UV‐lesions in the genome: The modular CRL4 ubiquitin ligase does it best!
Authors: Scrima Andrea , Fischer Eric S. , Lingaraju Gondichatnahalli M. , Böhm Kerstin , Cavadini Simone , Thomä Nicolas H.
Published: May 2011

The DDB1–DDB2–CUL4–RBX1 complex serves as the primary detection device for UV‐induced lesions in the genome. It simultaneously functions as a CUL4 type E3 ubiquitin ligase. We review the current understanding of this dual function ubiquitin ligase and damage detection complex. The DDB2 damage binding module is merely one of a large family of possible DDB1–CUL4 associated factors (DCAF), most of which are substrate receptors for other DDB1–CUL4 complexes. DDB2 and the Cockayne‐syndrome A protein (CSA) function in nucleotide excision repair, whereas the remaining receptors operate in a wide range of other biological pathways. We will examine the modular architecture of DDB1–CUL4 in complex with DDB2, CSA and CDT2 focusing on shared architectural, targeting and regulatory principles.
The central role of RNA in human development and cognition
Authors: Mattick John S.
Published: May 2011

It appears that the genetic programming of humans and other complex organisms has been misunderstood for the past 50 years, due to the assumption that most genetic information is transacted by proteins. However, the human genome contains only about 20,000 protein‐coding genes, similar in number and with largely orthologous functions as those in nematodes that have only 1000 somatic cells. By contrast, the extent of non‐protein‐coding DNA increases with increasing complexity, reaching 98.8% in humans. The majority of these sequences are dynamically transcribed, mainly into non‐protein‐coding RNAs, with tens if not hundreds of thousands that show specific expression patterns and subcellular locations, as well as many classes of small regulatory RNAs. The emerging evidence indicates that these RNAs control the epigenetic states that underpin development, and that many are dysregulated in cancer and other complex diseases. Moreover it appears that animals, particularly primates, have evolved plasticity in these RNA regulatory systems, especially in the brain. Thus, it appears that what was dismissed as ‘junk’ because it was not understood holds the key to understanding human evolution, development, and cognition.
Can polymeric vesicles that confine enzymatic reactions act as simplified organelles?
Authors: Tanner Pascal , Egli Stefan , Balasubramanian Vimalkumar , Onaca Ozana , Palivan Cornelia G. , Meier Wolfgang
Published: May 2011

In various pathological conditions an advantage may be gained by reinforcing an intrinsic organismal response. This can be achieved, for example, by enzyme replacement therapy, which can amplify specific, intrinsic activities of the organelles. In this respect, polymeric nanoreactors composed of vesicles that encapsulate an enzyme or a combination of enzymes in their cavities represent a novel approach in therapeutic applications because they behave like simplified organelles. As compartments, polymeric vesicles possess a membrane that is more stable than the corresponding lipid membrane of liposomes, with the dual role of protecting enzymes and simultaneously allowing them to act in situ. A complex scenario of requirements must be fulfilled by enzyme‐containing polymeric nanoreactors if they are to function under biological conditions and serve to model organelles. Nanoreactors are described here in terms of the existing models and the challenges faced in developing artificial organelles for therapeutic applications. We will focus on describing how polymeric vesicles can be used to provide a protected compartment for enzymatic reactions, and serve as simplified organelles inside cells.
Are retinoids potential therapeutic agents in disorders of social cognition including autism?
Authors: Ebstein Richard P. , Mankuta David , Yirmiya Nurit , Malavasi Fabio
Published: May 2011

Increasing evidence suggests that the nonapeptide, oxytocin (OT), helps shape social and affiliative behaviors not only in lower mammals but also in humans. Recently, an essential mediator of brain OT release has been discovered, ADP‐ribosyl cyclase and/or CD38. We have subsequently shown that polymorphisms across the CD38 gene are associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Notably, CD38 expression in lymphoblastoid cells (LBC) is reduced in cell lines derived from ASD subjects compared to parental cell lines. Intriguingly, a correlation was observed between CD38 expression and measures of social function in ASD. Finally, we have shown that all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a known inducer of CD38 transcription, can rescue low CD38 expressing LBC lines derived from ASD subjects and restore normal levels of transcription of this ectoenzyme providing ‘proof of principle’ in a peripheral model that retinoids are potential therapeutic agents in ASD.
Cell non‐autonomous functions of homeoproteins in neuroprotection in the brain
Authors: Joshi Rajiv L. , Ibad Raoul Torero , Rheey Jinguen , Castagner François , Prochiantz Alain , Moya Kenneth L.
Published: May 2011

Homeoproteins transcription factors can transfer between cells and play important roles in development. However, some of these homeoproteins are expressed in the adult, but their function is unknown. The loss of mesencephalic dopaminergic (mDA) neurons is the cause of Parkinson's disease. In mice lacking a functional allele for the Engrailed 1 homeoprotein, mDA neurons progressively die starting about 6 weeks after birth. Infusion of recombinant Engrailed stops the death of these neurons demonstrating that homeoproteins can be neuroprotective. This has been extended to retinal ganglion cell neurons (RGCs), which die in glaucoma and optic neuropathies. The homeoprotein Otx2 promotes the survival of injured adult RGCs both in vitro and in vivo. These examples raise the possibility that homeoproteins may provide neuroprotection to neurons vulnerable in other neurodegenerative diseases.
The emerging role of metabolic regulation in the functioning of Toll‐like receptors and the NOD‐like receptor Nlrp3
Authors: Tannahill Gillian M. , O'Neill Luke A.J.
Published: May 2011

While it has long been suspected that inflammation participates in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders such as the insulin resistance that occurs in type 2 diabetes, recent work suggests that this is not the only important interaction between metabolism and inflammation. Inroads into the understanding of the relationship between metabolic pathways and inflammation are indicating that signaling by innate immune receptors such as TLR4 and Nlrp3 regulate metabolism. TLRs have been shown to promote glycolysis, whilst Nlrp3‐mediated production of IL‐1β causes insulin resistance. A key role for the hypoxia‐sensing transcription factor HIF1α in the functioning of macrophages activated by TLRs has also recently emerged. This review will assess recent evidence for these complex interactions and speculate on their importance for innate immunity and inflammation.
Beyond ATM: The protein kinase landscape of the DNA damage response
Authors: Bensimon Ariel , Aebersold Ruedi , Shiloh Yosef
Published: May 2011

The DNA of all organisms is constantly subjected to damaging agents, both exogenous and endogenous. One extremely harmful lesion is the double‐strand break (DSB), which activates a massive signaling network – the DNA damage response (DDR). The chief activator of the DSB response is the ATM protein kinase, which phosphorylates numerous key players in its various branches. Recent phosphoproteomic screens have extended the scope of damage‐induced phosphorylations beyond the direct ATM substrates. We review the evidence for the involvement of numerous other protein kinases in the DDR, obtained from documentation of specific pathways as well as high‐throughput screens. The emerging picture of the protein phosphorylation landscape in the DDR broadens the current view on the role of this protein modification in the maintenance of genomic stability. Extensive cross‐talk between many of these protein kinases forms an interlaced signaling network that spans numerous cellular processes. Versatile protein kinases in this network affect pathways that are different from those they have been identified with to date. The DDR appears to be one of the most extensive signaling responses to cellular stimuli.
The Effect of the Number of Product Subcategories on Perceived Variety and Shopping Experience in an Online Store
Authors: Chang Chingching
Published: May 2011

This study tested whether organizing the same number of products in different ways on an online store's website influences attitudes toward the store. The pilot study revealed that when the products were sorted into more subcategories (9 as opposed to 3), such that more subcategory options appeared in the selection menu, participants perceived that the website offered a greater variety of products and experienced greater ease of navigation and shopping pleasure, which improved their attitudes toward the online store. The next experiment tested the same effect but with three subcategory quantities (18, 9, and 3) while also considering the moderating effect of choice uncertainty (high versus low) in two processing contexts (buying versus browsing). The more subcategory options, the greater consumers’ perceived variety. However, the influence of the number of subcategory options on ease of navigation, shopping pleasure, attitudes toward the store, and future purchase intentions indicated an inverted U-shaped pattern; moreover, the influence was significant only among participants with low rather than high choice uncertainty. This article concludes with implications for online marketing.
A Two-Site Analytical Evaluation of the BD Viper System with XTR Technology in Nonextracted Mode and Extracted Mode with Seeded Simulated Specimens
Authors: Rank Elliot L. , Sautter Robert L. , Beavis Kathleen G. , Harris Sharon , Jones Sharon , Drechsel Rebecca , Goad Beth , Althouse Michelle
Published: May 2011

The BD ProbeTec CT Qx Amplified DNA Assay and the BD ProbeTec GC Qx Amplified DNA Assay (both BD Diagnostics, Sparks, MD) represent two new assays developed for use with the BD Viper System with XTR Technology (BD Diagnostics). These assays were built on the foundation of the former BD ProbeTec ET assays (BD Diagnostics) and its accompanying instrumentation. The study described below compared the new assay format, Extracted Mode, to the former assay format, Nonextracted Mode, with the primary objective of examining and measuring overall time expenditures and efficiency of operation. An 80— 142-min reduction in “hands-on” total processing time was observed for the Extracted Mode whether testing urines or swabs. The second objective was to assess the accuracy of performance at low simulated analytical loads for the pathogens Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Performance accuracies for simulated positive and negative urine or swab specimens were calculated to be 99.97% for Extracted Mode and 99.76% for Nonextracted Mode.
Failure to deliver? Linking online order fulfillment glitches with future purchase behavior
Authors: Rao Shashank , Griffis Stanley E. , Goldsby Thomas J.
Published: May 2011

This study investigates operations failures in online retailing. Specifically, it examines the relationship between an operations glitch (order fulfillment delay) and subsequent shopping behavior for previously loyal customers in an online retailing environment. Using archival data from a moderate‐sized online retailer of printed material, this study employs expectancy disconfirmation and distributive justice theories to empirically show that adverse post‐glitch reactions are seen in several dimensions of customer shopping behavior – order frequency and order size decrease, while customer anxiety level increases. The study thus demonstrates that online retailers need to deliver on order fulfillment promises, since a failure to live up to these promises can be detrimental. This study is unique in that, unlike previous studies on order fulfillment in online retailing investigating the tie between fulfillment success and future behavior, we examine the repercussions of order fulfillment failures upon future purchase behavior.
How different is professional service operations management?
Authors: Lewis Michael A. , Brown Andrew D.
Published: May 2011

Highlights

► Detailed analysis of a legal service partnership is used to explore the distinctive characteristics of professional service operations management. ► We examine customer interactions, service customization, process throughput and variability, professional employee behavior and managerial interventions. ► Professional–client exchange is variably asymmetrical – with significant implications for service package and process design. ► Professional service operations represent a significant opportunity for commoditization. ► Professional status and structures introduce distinctive trade‐offs when seeking greater efficiency and effectiveness.

This paper presents detailed analysis of the operational and operations management characteristics of a professional service firm, a legal partnership. An in‐depth study of customer interactions, service customization, process throughput and variability, professional employee behavior and managerial interventions provided the basis for confirmatory and exploratory research. The results suggested a number of refinements to existing conceptualizations of the professional service type operation and indicated areas where professional service operations management should be viewed as highly distinctive. First, professional–client exchange is variably asymmetrical – with significant implications for service package and process design. Second, professional service operations comprise a substantial number of less variable and faster throughput processes – creating a significant opportunity for commoditization. Third, professional status and corresponding organisational structures (e.g. the partnership model) need to be explicitly recognised in any typology – these factors introduce distinctive trade‐offs when seeking greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Influence of teaching life skills programs for avoiding of drug taking on university student
Authors: Gatab T. Ahmadi , Amiri M. Shafiei
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Life’s skill because of great theory and researching background is very important in avoiding of getting further into drug. “Teaching life skill’s s” collection by Dr.Botvin is the same and tries by contrasting sense of person to increase great self-independency and self-confidence.

Aims

It is an important key on taking drug. Because there is no influence avoiding program on universities, we verified this program on this research.

Methods

All university student of Payam noor, Babol branch on the years of 88-89 are of research collection. Research sample of about 100 girl and boys student were chosen and divided on two 50 persons groups. (Control and testing) testing group students passed life skills course but the other did not passed. The two groups were compared by health and good behavior of Dr.Botvin’s Questionnaires and on the base of dependent and independent group of T-teaching statistic.

Results

The mean score of university student have had differences to the scores on pre-testing phase. Because after- testing we had increasing information about materials, changing attitude to material and increasing skills.

Conclusions

Teaching life skills increased testing group’s skills level. In this case, this program is an avoiding factor and decrease drug taking on future. Teaching life skills collection is an avoiding factor on drug taking.We propos to teach this as an optional course on all universities. To do research on all other factor on life skills and noticing to time of teaching (long term, short term) is very interesting.
Risky behaviors of HIV infection among drug dependents in Egypt
Authors: Elsawy H.F. , Al-Kabash I.M.
Published: May 2011

Background

The objective was to study risky behaviors for HIV infection by drug dependents and assess their needs for prevention.

Methodology

This study was conducted on 188 drug addicts using a pre tested and pre designed qustionnaire sheet.

Results

The majority of studied addicts were ageing 20–40 years (81.4%), males (88.8%), of urban residence(69.7%) and of single marital status (69.7%). Illiteracy represented 10.6% and 22.3% were unemployed. Practicing drug injection was found among 44.7% out of them 42.9% shared needles. Knowledge about HIV/AIDS was found among the majority of studied addicts but deeper knowledge about modes of transmission was defective. Only 11.2% were ever screened for HIV compared with 43.6% for viral hepatitis. Risk perception for HIV infection was found among 28.6% of injecting drug users and 22% of addicts with unsafe sexual relations. Nearly two thirds had extramarital sex with multiple partners while 66.9% reported never use condoms. Hepatitis B and C and sexually transmitted infections were significanlty higher among dependents with unsafe sexual behaviros and drug injection.

Conclusion

Risky behaviors for HIV infection are common among studied addicts. Their risk perception and knowledge about HIV/AIDS was, however, found defective. There is urgent need for outreach programs to increase their awarness about harm reduction meaures.
The effect of methadone maintenance therapy on harm minimization between opiate dependents in socio behavioral consulting centers
Authors: Kheradmand A. , Parvaresh N. , Darijani M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Socio behavioral consulting centers offer Methadone maintenance therapy which is a very useful method for drug dependents. These centers offer a wide range of services like education, consulting, prevention, take care of patient, and treatment for high risk groups like patients infected with AIDS. MMT is helpful in harm minimization and increases quality of drug dependent’s life, so as a result reduces infection in HIV patients.

Aims

This study intends to investigate importance of MMT on harm minimization between opioid dependents in Kerman.

Methods

The study was cross sectional and descriptive and it was done on 110 patients referred to sociobehavioral consulting centers no.1 and no.2 in Kerman city in 2005 and 2006. Data was gathered by questionnaires once on the beginning of the treatment and once 6 months after. Then data was analyzed by SPSS13 and chi square test.

Findings

MMT results in a reduction of 97.3% of common injections and 96.4% of police arresting to imprisonment and 80% in family problems and 68.2% drug abuse and negative morphine test in these centers. Also after 6 months of treatment, drug consumption expenses were lowered.

Conclusion

This study showed that the treatment with MMT in social behavioral consulting centers reduced dangerous behaviors and increased quality of life and controlled the transmission of Dangerous Diseases such as AIDS, Hepatitis and etc in the community.
Considerations on classification of alcohol induced mental disorders
Authors: Pajević I. , Hasanović M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Current valid classification systems (ICD-10 and DSM-IV) of the alcohol-induced disorders include: acute intoxication, pathological intoxication, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, psychotic disorder with delusions or hallucinations, delirium tremens, amnesic syndrome, mood disorders and anxiety disorders caused by alcohol consumption (only in DSM-IV) and sexual dysfunction.

Aim

To consider adequacy of existing classifications of alcohol dependency and to offer more adequate suggestion for ICD-11 and DSM-V.

Methodology

Authors compared and analyzed the diagnostic criteria that are offered in the current classifications for these disorders.

Results

There are many similarities and many differences between existing diagnostic criteria's. The former name of the DSM-IV (Substance related disorders, which include Alcohol related disorders) is inappropriate since it excludes other related disorders. Another important issue that is currently a subject of extensive discussions in the process of finalizing the DSM-V refers to the current distinction terms abuse and alcohol dependence. Scientific documents about the criteria of abuse and dependence in clinical samples and samples from the general population suggest that the DSM-IV criteria for abuse and dependence can be considered as part of a one-dimensional structure, thus for DSM-V it could be combined into a single disorder, with two criteria to make a diagnosis.

Conclusion

It is expected that the principles adopted by the WHO during the preparation for ICD-11, which includes bridging the differences between ICD and DSM and the introduction of the person centered integrative diagnosis (PID) will be an important step forward in understanding and distinction among alcohol induced mental disorders.
Selective effect of paternal age on age-of-onset in bipolar i disorder
Authors: Grigoroiu-Serbanescu M. , Wickramaratne P.J. , Elston R.C.
Published: May 2011

Objective

The study investigated the effect of the parental age on the age-of-onset (AO) in bipolar I disorder (BPI) in connection with proband gender and family history for major psychoses in a directly interviewed sample of 530 BPI probands.

Method

All 530 probands, 73.0% of their first-degree and 22.62% of their second-degree relatives were administered the DIGS and FIGS interviews. The family history (FH) method was used for unavailable relatives. The impact of parental age on proband early/late AO was evaluted through logistic regressions. The commingling analysis (SAGEv6.1-software) was used to determine the cut-off age separating the early/late AO.

Results

We evidenced a significant influence of the paternal age ≥ 35 years on AO in BPI disorder in the total sample (p = 0.023) and in some subgroups defined by positive/negative FH for major psychoses: the sporadic group (p = 0.035) and the group with FH of recurrent unipolar major depression (Mdd-RUP) (p = 0.041). No effect of the paternal/maternal age on disease AO was found in patients with FH of bipolar/schizoaffective disorders/schizoprenia (BP/SA/SCZ). The global significant effect of the advancing paternal age on the decreasing proband AO was generated by female patients (p = 0.022). No effect of the paternal/maternal age on disease AO was found in male patients. Paternal age was older in fathers of sporadic cases and of cases with FH of Mdd-RUP than in cases with FH of BP/SA/SCZ (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

We evidenced a selective effect of the advancing paternal age on bipolar onset depending on offspring gender and type of FH for major psychoses.
An indian study of health related quality of life in bipolar disorder patients and their caregivers
Authors: Kumar P. , Bhatia M.S. , Mittal S. , Tomar B.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

There are major health care implications of quality of life (QOL) in longstanding disorders such as Bipolar affective disorder (BD) for the patients and their caregivers.

Objectives

The aim of the present study is to compare quality of life among bipolar disorder patients, their caregivers and to assess whether the level of depression correlates with the scores of quality of life in Bipolar Disorder patients.

Method

We compared bipolar disorder (N = 40), their caregivers (N = 40) and no psychiatric illnesses (N = 150) on health related quality of life (HRQOL) which was assessed using the 26-item World Health Organization QOL instrument (WHOQOL-BREF Hindi version). All patients were diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV. Within the group with bipolar disorder, we examined the relationship between HRQOL using WHOQOL BREF Hindi version and depression assessed using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS).

Results

Patients in bipolar disorder group had lower QOL on all the four domains compared to healthy controls, caregivers. The four domains of the WHOQOL scale correlated negatively with the HDRS.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that bipolar depression and residual symptoms of depression are negatively correlated with QOL in BD patients.
A survey of the demographic, personality and psychopatology characteristics of the runaway girls
Authors: Dehbozorgi G.R.
Published: May 2011

The problem of runaway girls is one of the social problems having become more prevalent and common subject for families, welfare centres and government in Iran.Escaped girls from their home, which have been prevalent, recently have been the problematic social subject for family, aid agencies and government.

Objective

This study aimed at determining the demographic, personality and psychopathology characteristic of runaway girls from home in Shiraz.

Method

Fifty girls who escaped from home and referred to the Women's Social Emergency and Rehabilitant Centre were compared with fifty girls who lived with their parents. They were assessed by semi-structured interview based on DSMIV-TR criteria, demographic questionnaire, GHQ-28 and EPQ-R-106.

Results

The results showed that %86 of the runaway girls were resident in cities, and %40 of them was the first child of the family. Considering the familial stability, addicted parents, death and divorce of parents; the runaway girls did not have significant differences with control group, although they had significant differences in psychiatric disorders and physical abuse. Also they had more problems in social function and extroversion, lying, addiction and crime seeking.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of psychopathology and social victims of the runaway girls demands serious attention by the non-governmental and governmental organizations for increasing their mental health and social supports.
Pervasive refusal syndrome: comparing and contrasting clinical cases
Authors: Grahame V. , Reid C. , Rao S. , Guirguis S. , Kaplan C.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Pervasive Refusal Syndrome (PRS) is a relatively new diagnostic concept, that describes a rare and potentially life threatening condition, in which children refuse to walk.

talk, eat, drink, engage in self care, and take part in day to day activities (Lask et al, 1991).

PRS is not included in any of the psychiatric classification systems (ICD 10, DSM IV), although consensus exists within the literature as to its existence. Lask comments in his paper on Pervasive Refusal Syndrome that he has consulted on only 50 cases worldwide (Lask, 2004).

Objectives

The authors will share their clinical experience of treating seven new cases of PRS in a Regional CAMHS inpatient hospital. Patients with PRS often require hospital admission for assessment and exclusion of other medical, neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, because of the rarity many medical and psychiatric professionals have little experience of the treatment and rehabilitation required.

Methods

The specific MDT management approach necessary to meet the complex needs of patients with PRS will be discussed, as treatment is often counterintuitive, and some approaches can result in deterioration rather than improvement.

Results

In terms of improvement and recovery from the disorder, less is known about long term follow-up, as only a few studies have reported on immediate outcome. The authors have undertaken a long term follow-up (in press) and will discuss issues relating to prognosis.

Conclusion

A specific MDT treatment approach for PRS will be discussed, alongside the clinical decisions and dilemmas involved in following this approach.
P01-300-Assessment of level anxiety and depression for parents of children with chronic disease
Authors: Jafary Manesh H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Anxiety and depression are psychological disorders, which are according to the World Health Organization in terms of disease on top of other diseases in recent decades. Parents have children with chronic disease, which are faced with psychological pressure. In these Conditions, they are susceptible to Anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression of Parental is associated with decreased sense of responsibility toward care, education and nutrition for their children. Children of depressed parents than healthy parents have more hospitalization time and higher mortality. addition, parents are considered as the most important people in the support system of sick children and their mental disorder affect on their children's mental and emotional health. Therefore assessment of parents’ the two disorders are essential.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine of parent's anxiety and depression of children with chronic disease in Tehran Mofid pediatric hospital in 1389.

Method

This is cross-sectional descriptive study. 440 parents of hospitalized children with chronic diseases were selected with random sampling. Study's tool was anxiety and depression hospital scale. Tools validated with content and convergent validity method and test-retest method was used to its reliability.

Findings

Assessment of anxiety level showed 49/1% of samples were moderate to severe and 24/5% with mild anxiety. Level analyses of depression showed that 31/8% of samples were with moderate to severe depression and 27/3 with mild depression.

Conclusion

Overall result showed that more than half of parents of children with chronic diseases suffer from moderate to severe anxiety and depression.
The psychological profile of young people and tattoo changes
Authors: Krasic D.B. , Mitic M.L. , Kostic J.S. , Ilic N.M. , Rankovic M.Z.
Published: May 2011

Adolescence is a developing period on the way of forming the final identity. The core of it is the physical identity, which is the starting point and whose expression is the mirror of its internal being. Tattoos, offered as a part of fashion trend, are accepted by a great number of young people, but on the other side, many people remain distant in relation to them.

The aim of work

Research carried out for determining the specificities of the psycho-social profile of adolescents with tattoos.

Materials and methods

Research carried out on 80 adolescents of the age between 16 and 25 years, both sexes…A questionnaire with demographical data was used for the research, PIE (profile index of emotions Plucik), battery of the tests CON4.

Results

Adolescents with a greater number of tattoos (2 or more) manifest a higher aggression, low frustration tolerance and impulsiveness, social disinhibition and they are emotionally without social fears, unpleasantness and shame. Young people with one tattoo don’t have a different profile, but a need of satisfying fashion trends and solving their developing uncertainties and depressiveness.

Conclusion

Young people with tattoos have a specific psycho-social profile, and a great number of tattoos is a screening for indicating behavioral disorders.
Antipsychotic medication for childhood-onset schizophrenia
Authors: Kumar A. , Kennedy E. , Datta S.
Published: May 2011

Background

Childhood-onset schizophrenia is onset prior to the age of 13 years. Although rare, people who suffer from schizophrenia at an early age appear to have a severe form of the illness with poor long-term prognosis. Antipsychotic medication is one way of managing this serious mental illness.

Aims/objectives

To examine the effects of antipsychotics for childhood-onset schizophrenia.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group Trials Register, inspected references and contacted pharmaceutical companies and authors of trials. We included all randomised clinical trials.

Results

From a total of 2062 citations, we identified six relevant trials. Three comparisons: atypical versus typical, atypical versus atypical and typical versus typical antipsychotic drugs. The only comparison to find any differences was atypical versus typical antipsychotic drugs. A few results from one study favoured the atypical antipsychotic clozapine over haloperidol in treating treatment resistant childhood-onset schizophrenia (n = 21, WMD CGAS 17.00 CI 7.74 to 26.26). Participants on clozapine, however, were three times more likely to have drowsiness (1 RCT, n = 21, RR 3.30 CI 1.23 to 8.85, NNH 2 CI 2 to 17) and half of the children receiving clozapine had neutropenia (1 RCT, n = 21, RR 12, CI 0.75 to192.86).

Conclusions

There are few relevant trials and, presently, there is little conclusive evidence regarding the effects of antipsychotic medication for those with early onset schizophrenia. Some benefits were identified in using the atypical antipsychotic clozapine compared with haloperidol but the benefits were offset by an increased risk of serious adverse effects. Larger, more robust, trials are required.
Liaison psychiatry in a spinal cord injury unit: characteristics of patients with acute traumatic spinal cord injury (ATSCI)
Authors: Lusilla Palacios P. , Torrent Bertrand L. , Montesinos Magraner L. , Rodríguez A. , González Viejo M.A. , Parramon G. , Casas Brugué M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Despite of the evidence of high psychopathological disorders in patients with ATSCI, few data are available on their psychiatric morbidity prior to the injury.

Objectives

Identify psychiatric morbidity pre-post ATSCI in a sample of patients admitted in the Spinal Injuries Unit of the Vall d’ Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona (Spain).

Material and methods

54 patients with ATSCI patients were admitted between 1st. October 2009 and 1st. October 2010. SPSS (version 16.1) was used to analyze the data.

Results

Seventy-six percent of the inpatients with ATSCI (41 cases) were evaluated by the psychiatrist and constitute the study sample. Twenty-seven (66%) were male and 14 (33%) female. The average age of the sample was 41 years with younger males (p < 0.05).

Reasons for ATSCI in males were traffic accident (26%), accidental falls and sports accidents (both 18.5%). In women were suicidal attempt by precipitation, fall accident (28.6% both) and traffic accident (21.4%).

41% of men versus 14% of women had a history of substance misuse (p < 0.01) while 64% of women versus the 14.8% of males had a prior psychiatric disorder (p < 0.01). 72.5% of men with ATSCI caused by traffic accident had used substances prior to the accident, those association was not found for women.

91% of patients underwent psychopharmacological intervention.

Conclusions

ATSCI patients exhibit high psychiatric morbidity and require specialized assessment. The high incidence of substance use associated with road traffic injuries suggests the need to identify risk groups in order to establish effective preventive measures.
Hospitalized psychoses after liver transplantation
Authors: Rojas-Estapé M. , Iglesias Rodriguez C. , Garcia Murillo L.
Published: May 2011

Calcineurin inhibitors can cause neurological and psychiatric side effects. Mild symptoms to severe complications can be found.

Case presentation

We report a 49 year old man who received an orthotopic liver transplantation in May 2010. He received tacrolimus. Ten days later, while he was still in Hospital, he suffered behavioural disorders, being psychotic with delusions of persecution; he called the police thinking that he was being poisened by the staff of the Hospital. Although his Tacrolimus blood concentration had been kept in the normal range, his symptoms improved dramatically when the Tacrolimus was changed into Cyclosporine and Haloperidol was introduced at high doses (7 mg/day) for 10 days when the dose was reduced to 4 mg/day.

Medical history

Chronic hepatitis VHC 1a in 1994. Received treatment with Interferon alfa in 1997 with no antiviral answer. In 2001 new treatment with pegylated Interferon and Ribavirine with positive virological answer but had to be stopped because of psychoses secondary to treatment. New treatment in March 2006 to March 2007 with Pegasys+Ribavirine with rapid virologycal answer with prophylactic Olanzapine 5 mg during a year with no psychotic symptons. In May 2009, Child Pugh C10, in list for liver transplantation.

We discuss the implications of these findings and the relevance for future clinical care in these patients.
Empathic inclination and job satisfaction in the nurses working with the individuals with chronic diseases
Authors: Tel H. , Mollaoğlu M. , Polatkan R. , Günaltay H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

The chronic diseases are increasing in all around the world. As the members of the health team, nurses are in an important position in protection from chronic diseases and maintenance of those diseases.

Objective

The present study was carried out in order to determine the empathic inclination and the job satisfaction in the nurses working with patients with chronic diseases.

Method

In the study, 259 nurses working with patients having chronic diseases were included. Data for the study were gathered by using questionnaire form, empathic inclination scale and job satisfaction scale. In the assessment of the research data, percentage distribution, Pearson correlation analysis, Mann Whitney U test and Kruskall Wallis tests were used.

Findings

It was found that there are positive correlation between empathic inclination and job satisfaction; the ages of nurses and empathic inclination; and working years of the nurses and the empathic inclination (p < 0.05).

Results

As the empathic inclination in the nurses working with patients having chronic diseases, the job satisfaction increases. As the ages and working years of the nurses increase, their empathic inclinations increase, too. The high level of empathic inclination and job satisfaction in nurses maintaining the patients with chronic disease will contribute to the sustainability of the maintenance both for the patients and nurses.