bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context of sexual risk behaviour among abused ethnic minority adolescent women
Authors: Champion J.D.
Published: January 2011

CHAMPION J.D. (2011) Context of sexual risk behaviour among abused ethnic minority adolescent women. International Nursing Review58, 61–67

Background:  Evidence suggests that multiple influences on sexual behaviour of adolescents exist, ranging from relationships with significant others including sexual or physical abuse and childhood molestation to substances used prior to sex and environmental circumstances such as sex work.

Purpose:  This study aims to describe associations between childhood molestation and sexual risk behaviour.

Method:  African American and Mexican American adolescent women aged 14–18 years (n = 562) with sexually transmitted infection (STI) or abuse histories and enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of behavioural interventions were interviewed via self‐report concerning sexual risk behaviour, abuse and childhood molestation at study entry.

Results:  Sexual (59%), physical (77%) and psychological (82%) abuse and childhood molestation (25%) were self‐reported without differences by ethnicity. Adolescents reporting childhood molestation experienced more forms of sexual, physical and psychological abuse than others and higher incidences of STI. Fewer attended school; however, more had arrests, convictions, incarcerations and probations. Stressors including depression, running away, thoughts of death and suicide were highest for those reporting childhood molestation. Those reporting childhood molestation engaged in higher sexual risk behaviours than adolescents experiencing other forms of sexual or physical abuse (lifetime partners, bisexual relationships, anal and group sex, sex with friends with benefits, sex for money, concurrent partners, drug use including multiple substances, alcohol use and alcohol problems). These adolescents reported ‘getting high’ and having sex when out of control as reasons for sex with multiple partners.

Conclusion:  Interventions for abused adolescent women necessitate a focus on associations between childhood molestation and a multiplicity of sexual risk behaviours for prevention of abuse, substance use and sex work, STI/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sequelae.
The relationship between incidence and report of medication errors and working conditions
Authors: Joolaee S. , Hajibabaee F. , Peyrovi H. , Haghani H. , Bahrani N.
Published: January 2011

JOOLAEE S., HAJIBABAEE F., PEYROVI H., HAGHANI H. & BAHRANI N. (2011) The relationship between incidence and report of medication errors and working conditions. International Nursing Review58, 37–44

Background:  Medication errors are considered to be a serious threat to patients' safety. Efforts to detect and prevent these errors have increased considerably in recent years.

Aim:  To determine the incidence and reporting rate of medication errors as reported by Iranian nurses and their relationship with work conditions in hospitals under the authority of Iran University of Medical Sciences.

Methods:  This descriptive‐analytical study was carried out in six hospitals. Through a stratified multiple stage sampling, 300 nurses were selected. A researcher‐constructed, three‐part, self‐report questionnaire was used to collect data regarding the nurses' medication errors, medication error reports and their perceived working conditions during the previous 3 months. The data were processed using descriptive statistics and Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance.

Findings:  The mean of medication errors that nurses recalled was 19.5, and the mean of error reporting was 1.3 cases during the previous 3 months. The relationship between error incidence and work conditions as perceived by nurses was statistically significant (df = 3, P ≤ 0.0001); however, there was no significant relationship between reporting the occurred error and nurses' perceived work conditions (df = 3, P ≤ 0.255).

Conclusion and implications:  The establishment of an efficient reporting system, documentation of errors and removal of obstacles to reporting may result in reduced frequency of medication errors. Considering the relationship between medication error incidence and working conditions, it seems that creating a work condition in which nurses feel more comfortable and decreasing work tensions may pave the way to preventing nursing errors.
Price and earnings momentum in Australian stock returns
Authors: Schneider Paul , Gaunt Clive
Published: January 2011

There is no prior published Australian research on earnings momentum and only one prior unpublished work of limited depth and scope. We provide some of the first Australian evidence on earnings momentum and revisit price momentum with the first Australian evidence of the behaviour of returns beyond 12 months. Price momentum is found to be a feature of this market, but there is some reversal of returns during the second year after portfolio formation, suggesting trend chasing behaviour. Earnings momentum is also present, but with weak continuation into the second year. Price momentum and earnings momentum are shown to provide independent explanatory power over future returns.
CATASTROPHE ETHICS AND ACTIVIST SPEECH: REFLECTIONS ON MORAL NORMS, ADVOCACY, AND TECHNICAL JUDGMENT
Authors: SELINGER EVAN , THOMPSON PAUL , COLLINS HARRY
Published: January 2011

Abstract: This essay critically examines whether there are ethical dimensions to the way that expertise, knowledge claims, and expressions of skepticism intersect on technical matters that influence public policy, especially during times of crisis. It compares two different perspectives on the matter: a philosophical outlook rooted in discourse and virtue ethics and a sociological outlook rooted in the so‐called third‐wave approach to science studies. The comparison occurs through metaphilosophical analysis and applied claims that clarify how the disciplinary orientations appear to lead to different judgments about matters related to Robert Paarlberg's condemnation of activists who advise African politicians to ban genetically modified food.
SILENT CONDITIONS
Authors: WEISSMAN DAVID
Published: January 2011

Abstract: Science and practical life strive to identify the generating or constraining conditions for the existence and character of whatever states of affairs concern them. Yet some conditions for phenomena within nature or for nature itself may be unidentifiable because there are no empirical data testing hypotheses about them or because relevant data are inaccessible. Three conditions external to nature are considered: God, eternal possibilities, and events priori to or consequent on the Big Bang. Empirical data confirming the existence and character of the first two are lacking; evidence relevant to the inception and effects of the third is inaccessible. Nature has conditions that will likely remain unknowable; the world is likely to be more complicated than we can know. Speculations about the existence and character of its silent conditions won't be deterred, though the absence of justifying empirical data entails that speculation doesn't justify belief.
EMOTION AND ANECDOTE IN PHILOSOPHICAL ARGUMENT: THE CASE OF HAVI CAREL'SILLNESS
Authors: BURLEY MIKEL
Published: January 2011

Abstract:Critics of Havi Carel's 2008 book,Illness: The Cry of the Flesh, have contended that Carel's deployment of phenomenological philosophy adds little to commonsense views about illness and that Carel relies too heavily on emotion‐laden autobiographical anecdotes. Against these contentions this article argues: first, that a perfectly respectable task of philosophy is to find reasons to support pre‐existing beliefs; and secondly, that Carel's use of anecdotes, while certainly appealing to readers' emotions, constitutes part of a legitimate argumentative strategy. The article links these proposals with broader debates concerning the proper task of philosophy and the role of emotionality and imagination in philosophical inquiry.
HOW TO PRACTISE PHILOSOPHY AS THERAPY: PHILOSOPHICAL THERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC PHILOSOPHY
Authors: FISCHER EUGEN
Published: January 2011

Abstract: The notion that philosophy can be practised as a kind of therapy has become a focus of debate. This article explores how philosophy can be practised literally as a kind of therapy, in two very different ways: as philosophical therapy that addresses “real‐life problems” (e.g., Sextus Empiricus) and as therapeutic philosophy that meets a need for therapy which arises in and from philosophical reflection (e.g., Wittgenstein). With the help of concepts adapted from cognitive and clinical psychology, and from cognitive linguistics, the article shows that both philosophical projects address important and literally therapeutic tasks and explains how they can do so with genuinely philosophical argument and analysis. This brings into view new applications for philosophy, a need for therapy in core areas of the subject, and the outline of a new approach to meet what will be shown to be a central need.
WHY “CONSCIOUSNESS” MEANS WHAT IT DOES
Authors: MANSON NEIL C.
Published: January 2011

Abstract: “Consciousness” seems to be a polysemic, ambiguous, term. Because of this, theorists have sought to distinguish the different kinds of phenomena that “consciousness” denotes, leading to a proliferation of terms for different kinds of consciousness. However, some philosophers—univocalists about consciousness—argue that “consciousness” is not polysemic or ambiguous. By drawing upon the history of philosophy and psychology, and some resources from semantic theory, univocalism about consciousness is shown to be implausible. This finding is important, for if we accept the univocalist account then we are less likely to subject our thought and talk about the mind to the kind of critical analysis that it needs. The exploration of the semantics of “consciousness” offered here, by way of contrast, clarifies and fine‐tunes our thought and talk about consciousness and conscious mentality and explains why “consciousness” means what it does, and why it means a number of different, but related, things.
Democracy, nationalism and (lack of) sovereignty: the complex dynamics of democratisation in unrecognised states†
Authors: CASPERSEN NINA
Published: January 2011

ABSTRACT. Unrecognised states are among the least likely candidates for democratisation: they tend to be driven by ethno‐nationalism, many are marked by the legacy of war and most are facing international isolation. Nevertheless, the claim to democracy has become a central part of their legitimising narrative. This article examines this apparent paradox and finds that neither ethno‐nationalism nor non‐recognition represents insurmountable barriers to democratisation. However, what we tend to find in these entities is a form of stagnated ‘ethnic democratisation’. These findings throw new light on the relationship between democracy and nationalism; they highlight the importance of (lack of) sovereignty; and they are used to evaluate Sammy Smooha's concept of ‘ethnic democracy’.
Succession of Exotic and Native Species Assemblages within Restored Floodplain Forests: A Test of the Parallel Dynamics Hypothesis
Authors: McLane Craig R. , Battaglia Loretta L. , Gibson David J. , Groninger John W.
Published: January 2011

Exotic plants pose a threat to restoration success in post‐agricultural bottomlands, but little information exists on their dynamics during succession of actively restored sites. We hypothesized that exotic assemblages would establish during succession and that their compositional trends during succession time would mirror those published for native species in other systems, with an early peak in herbaceous richness followed by a decline as woody species establish. In the summer of 2008, we sampled 16 sites across an 18‐year chronosequence of restored forests, with an additional four mature forest stands for comparison, within the Cypress Creek NWR, Illinois, U.S.A. We identified all vascular plant species and quantified canopy openness at three canopy strata, and soil texture and chemistry. Trends in exotic assemblages were significantly correlated with canopy openness at all strata. Richness of exotic and native herbaceous species was related to stand age and consistent with a Weibull regression model. Native and exotic herbaceous cover followed an exponential decay model. Woody native richness over time conformed to a logistic model; woody exotics exhibited no relationship with stand age and were present in sites of all ages. Our results indicate that although their rates of decline differ, herbaceous exotics and natives exhibit similar successional dynamics; therefore, herbaceous exotics may not pose a lasting threat to restoration success in reforested floodplains. Woody exotics can establish across a range of successional stages and persist under closed canopy conditions. Bottomland restorations are vulnerable to the invasion and expansion of exotic plant species even after canopy closure.
Canine Spinal Nephroblastoma: Long‐Term Outcomes Associated with Treatment of 10 Cases (1996–2009)
Authors: Liebel Francois‐Xavier , Rossmeisl John H. , Lanz Otto I. , Robertson John L.
Published: January 2011

Objective:To report clinical outcome associated with treatment of canine spinal cord nephroblastoma (CSN).

Study Design:Case series.

Animals:Dogs (n=10) with histopathologically confirmed CSN.

Methods:Records of dogs with CSN were reviewed and clinicopathologic, diagnostic imaging, treatment, outcome, and survival data were collected.

Results:CSN resulted in clinical signs of chronic, progressive T3–L3 myelopathy in young, large breed dogs, with an overrepresentation of German Shepherd Dogs (n=4). All CSN were located between T9 and L2. Dogs treated with cytoreductive surgery (n=6) or radiotherapy (1) survived longer (median, 374 days; range, 226–560 days) than dogs treated palliatively (3; median, 55 days; range, 38–176 days). Tumors confined to an intradural–extramedullary (ID–EM) location were associated with superior survival (n=6; median, 380 days; range, 176–560 days) than tumors with intramedullary (IM) involvement (n=4; median, 140 days; range, 38–269 days). Treatment resulted in temporary improvement in neurologic function in 9 dogs, including all dogs treated surgically, but local disease progression resulted in death of 8 dogs.

Conclusions:Results of this observational study suggest that surgical cytoreduction and radiotherapy are effective at improving survival in dogs with CSN, and that ID–EM tumors may be associated with a more favorable prognosis than IM neoplasms.
Evaluation of the overnight hold of whole blood at room temperature, before component processing: platelets (PLTs) from PLT‐rich plasma
Authors: van der Meer Pieter F. , Cancelas Jose A. , Vassallo Ralph R. , Rugg Neeta , Einarson Mindy , Hess John R.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND: Whole blood (WB) must be refrigerated within 8 hours to optimize Factor VIII : C yield, but chilled platelets (PLTs) are rapidly removed from circulation and cannot be used clinically. It is logistically preferable to hold WB overnight at room temperature for next‐day processing. We compared in vitro quality of PLT‐rich plasma (PRP)‐derived PLT concentrates (PCs) from fresh versus overnight‐held WB.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Four units of WB were pooled and split to prevent donor‐dependent differences. One unit was processed immediately; three others were held at room temperature and processed after 24 to 26 hours. After soft‐spin centrifugation, PRP was separated from the red blood cells. PRP was hard‐spun to make PLT‐poor plasma, and the PLTs were resuspended in approximately 60 mL of plasma and stored for 7 days (n = 8 paired experiments by two blood centers).

RESULTS: After overnight hold, the PLT concentration was 1.37 × 109 ± 0.19 × 109/mL versus 1.03 × 109 ± 0.32 × 109/mL for freshly prepared PCs (p < 0.05). pH and glucose were significantly lower and lactate higher for overnight‐held units on Day 1, but by Day 5, the differences had disappeared. Hypotonic shock response was initially better, 73 ± 14% for overnight‐held versus 53 ± 12% for freshly processed (p < 0.001), but this difference also disappeared during storage. Activation marker CD62P was not different.

CONCLUSION: In vitro storage conditions produce immediate differences after preparation, which disappear throughout storage. PCs from overnight‐held WB have similar in vitro variables as from freshly processed WB. These findings warrant confirmation in clinical trials, but underscore the possibility of use of these PCs as being equivalent to those obtained from freshly processed WB.
A Combined TCD and MRA Screening for Significant Siphon Portion of Internal Carotid Artery (S‐ICA) Stenosis
Authors: Aoki Junya , Kimura Kazumi , Iguchi Yasuyuki , Shibazaki Kensaku , Kobayashi Kazuto , Sakai Kenichiro , Sakamoto Yuki
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether combined transcranial Doppler (TCD) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can diagnose significant stenosis (s‐stenosis) of the siphon portion of the internal carotid artery (S‐ICA) on digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

METHODS

TCD criteria cut‐off peak systolic blood‐flow velocity of 75 cm/s or mean blood‐flow velocity of 50 cm/s, with both values more than 30% higher than in the contralateral S‐ICA. MRA criterion was defined as a ≥50% signal reduction of the column width. Combined TCD and MRA criteria were fulfillment of both TCD and MRA criteria.

RESULTS

Among 295 vessels, seven (2%) had s‐stenosis on DSA. Using TCD criteria, 16 vessels (5%) were identified to have s‐stenosis, of which six (38%) had s‐stenosis on DSA (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value [PPV], and negative predictive value [NPV] were .86, .97, .38, and .99). Using MRA criteria, 17 (6%) vessels were s‐stenosis, of which seven (41%) had s‐stenosis on DSA. Sensitivity, specificity, and NPV were 1.00, .97, and 1.00; however, PPV was low (.41). Combined TCD and MRA criteria identified six (2%) vessels as having s‐stenosis, all were s‐stenosis on DSA (PPV was 1.00).

CONCLUSION

Combined TCD and MRA examinations have similar diagnostic power to DSA. J Neuroimaging 2012;22:172‐176.
Traumatic Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm Secondary to a Gunshot Wound
Authors: Santos Gonçalo , Lima Tiago , Pereira Sara , Machado Egídio
Published: January 2011

Traumatic intracranial aneurysms are rare lesions, accounting for less than 1% of all intracranial aneurysms. Formation of these lesions after a penetrating missile wound is very unusual, and diagnosis can be difficult due to the presence of associated lesions. In this article, we report a case of a woman who developed a middle cerebral artery aneurysm after a gunshot wound, and discuss potential pitfalls found during diagnostic work‐up.
Imaging Inflammation in a Patient with Epilepsy Due to Focal Cortical Dysplasia
Authors: Butler Tracy , Ichise Masanori , Teich Andrew F. , Gerard Elizabeth , Osborne Joseph , French Jacqueline , Devinsky Orrin , Kuzniecky Ruben , Gilliam Frank , Pervez Fahad , Provenzano Frank , Goldsmith Stanley , Vallabhajosula Shankar , Stern Emily , Silbersweig David
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Evidence from animal models and examination of human epilepsy surgery specimens indicates that inflammation plays an important role in epilepsy. Positron emission tomography (PET) using [C11]PK11195, a marker of activated microglia, provides a means to visualize neuroinflammation in vivo in humans. We hypothesize that in patients with active epilepsy, [C11]PK11195 PET (PK‐PET) may be able to identify areas of focally increased inflammation corresponding to the seizure onset zone.

METHODS

A young woman with intractable epilepsy underwent PK‐PET as part of an approved research study. PK‐PET results were compared with results from other clinical studies.

RESULTS

PK‐PET revealed an area of focally increased radiotracer uptake in the right frontal lobe corresponding to this patient's seizure focus as identified by ictal and interictal 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)‐PET and EEG. Routine brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was initially considered normal, though high‐resolution studies showed possible subtle dysplasia of the right frontal lobe. The patient underwent a right frontal lobe resection, and pathological evaluation showed focal cortical dysplasia with activated microglia.

CONCLUSIONS

PK‐PET can identify neuroinflammation associated with subtle focal cortical dysplasia, and may therefore have a clinical role in guiding epilepsy surgery for patients with difficult‐to‐localize seizure foci.
Comparison Between Lysine Vasopressin and a Long‐Acting Analogue (Nα‐Triglycyl‐Lysine Vasopressin) used as Local Hemostatic Agents for Conization
Authors: Rundqvist Eva , Allen David , Larsson Göran
Published: January 2011

Lysine vasopressin and a long‐acting analogue Nα‐triglycyl‐lysine vasopressin were compared in a prospective randomized double‐blind study including 71 women undergoing cold knife conization of the uterine cervix. Hemodynamic and hemostatic variables were studied. Nα‐triglycyl‐lysine vasopressin had the following advantages over lysine vasopressin: it gave significantly less skin pallor, becoming evident at a later stage during the operation. The diastolic blood pressure was significantly lower, as also was the incidence of postoperative hemorrhages. Factor VIII related antigen was lower. On the other hand reduction in heart rate (values before conization compared with values during conization) was more pronounced when Nα‐triglycyl‐lysine vasopressin was used, but there was no difference in absolute values between the two groups during conization.
Reduced Incidence of Postoperative Endometritis by the use of Laminaria Tents in Connection with First Trimester Abortion
Authors: Bryman I. , Granberg S. , Norström A.
Published: January 2011

A Laminaria tent was inserted in the cervical canal of 115 primigravidae prior to vacuum aspiration in the first trimester. A mean dilatation of 9.7 mm was thereby achieved. Only 2 of these patients were treated by antibiotics due to ‘mild’ endometritis, as compared with 10 of 130 control patients due to endometritis and 7 patients due to ‘mild’ endometritis. Three non‐treated control patients had to undergo laparoscopy due to perforation of the uterus during dilatation of the cervical canal. It is concluded that pre‐treatment with the Laminaria tent prior to vacuum aspiration reduces the incidence of per‐ and post‐operative complications.
Umbilical Artery and Uteroplacental Blood Flow Velocity Waveforms in Normal Pregnancy — A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Gudmundsson Sæmundur , Maršál Karel
Published: January 2011

Umbilical and arcuate artery blood flow velocity waveforms (FVW) were recorded in 125 normal singleton pregnancies from 20 to 42 weeks of gestation. The FVW were analysed for pulsatility index (PI), peak systolic velocity/minimum diastolic velocity ratio (S/D ratio), rising slope (RS) and descending slope (DS). Both in the umbilical and arcuate arteries, values for all variables declined with advancing gestation, indicating decreasing placental vascular resistance. The umbilical artery PI was unaffected by the fetal heart rate, but the arcuate artery PI was negatively correlated to the maternal heart rate (r = −0.40). The arcuate artery PI decreased by 0.00394 with each beat per minute increase in maternal heart rate. Normal limits (mean ± 2 SD) were established for umbilical artery PI corrected for gestational age, and arcuate artery Pi corrected for gestational age and maternal heart rate.
Dehydroepi and Rosterone Sulfate in Saliva
Authors: Lagrelius Anders , Fridström Margareta , Möllerström Gunnar , Carlström Kjell
Published: January 2011

Concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) in saliva and serum were determined in 11 healthy men aged 23–40yrs. 55 healthy, non‐medicated women aged 20–81 yrs and 13 healthy women aged 20–30 yrs, all taking combined oral contraceptives (OC). Serum DHAS was higher in men than in women of corresponding age and was negatively correlated to age in OC‐free women. These sex‐ and age‐related differences were not found for salivary DHAS. Salivary and serum DHAS values were poorly correlated and the ratios between salivary and serum DHAS were variable, with a tendency to higher values in older subjects. Low salivabrum DHAS ratios were found in OC users. The lack of a uniform, unequivocal relation between DHAS concentrations in saliva and serum renders salivary DHAS assays unsuitable for clinical purposes.
An Unusually Aggressive Verrucose Carcinoma of the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Goldberger Shmuel B. , Rosen Doron J.D. , Fejgin Moshe D. , Marcov Shlomo , Cordoba Mario , Ben‐Aderet Noah
Published: January 2011

An unusual case of Verrucose Carcinoma of the uterine cervix is described. The tumor characteristics, as well as its aggressively malignant potential nature are presented. The unique response to irradiation therapy is discussed, hence the great difficulty in treating the tumor and the importance of early diagnosis to achieve a good prognosis. The literature regarding this unique tumor is reviewed.
Pregnancy in a 50‐Year‐Old
Authors: Helm Peter , øvlisen Bjarni
Published: January 2011

A 50‐year‐old women was admitted on suspicion of abdominal tumor. Clinical examination and ultrasonography revealed a living fetus of 24.2 weeks’ gestational age. Amniocentesis revealed trisomy 18 (Edwards’ syndrome). At 34 weeks the fetus died spontaneously, and by cesarean section a stillborn boy of 770 g was delivered. The risk of pregnancy in women after the age of 45 is emphasized.
Adenocarcinoma of Bartholin's Gland Associated with Extramammary Paget's Disease of the Vulva
Authors: Hastrup Nina , Andersen Erik Søgaard
Published: January 2011

A case of adenocarcinoma of Bartholin's gland in association with Paget's disease of the vulva, in a 61‐year‐old woman is presented. Only 3 cases of this combination have previously been presented. Carcinoma of Bartholin's gland is a diagnostic problem in most cases, as in the present. Radical vulvectomy and bilateral inguinal‐femoral lymph node dissection is the recommended mode of treatment.
β‐Endorphin Levels In The Human Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Chuong C. James , Smith Edward R. , Tsong Yi
Published: January 2011

To examine the fluctuation in plasma β‐Endorphin (β‐EP) concentration throughout the menstrual cycle, 8 healthy females with normal cycles were studied. After an overnight fast, the subject's blood samples were drawn between 8 and 10 a.m. They gave blood at 2 or 4 day intervals through three menstrual cycles. Using the LH surge as day 0, the mean β‐EP concentrations were higher on days −10, −9, −8 (6.5±2.6, 6.9±3.8 and 6.7±2.7 pmol/l, follicular phase), on days −1, 0, +1 (9.2±3.3, 9.1 ±5.2 and 8.8±3.3 pmol/l, periovulatory phase), and on days +9 and + 12 (8.6±2.5 and 8.8±3.8 pmol/l, luteal phase). Most β‐EP levels were low during menstruation. The rise and fall in β‐EP and its relation to temporal LH and FSH secretion are discussed. The findings show that three β‐EP rises take place during the menstrual cycle and that β‐EP may be involved in the regulation of ovulation.
A Model For Prediction Of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Dahlgren E. , Johansson S. , Odén A. , Lindström B. , Janson P. O.
Published: January 2011

An epidemiological statistical model was designed to identify women at low and high risk of developing endometrial cancer (EC). The model was based on a number of easily identified clinical factors such as hirsutism, parity, diabetes mellitus, body mass index (BMI) and smoking. A retrospectively collected series of 77 women aged 31 to 45 years with EC and a prospectively collected series of 122 women aged 43 to 70 years with EC were compared with 1409 controls. The participation frequencies in the two case materials were 83 and 87%, respectively. The series were examined by means of a questionnaire. In a stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis of the entire series the following variables were found to be significant; hirsutism, parity, BMI, diabetes mellitus and smoking.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Due To Exogenous Gonadotropin Administration
Authors: Bider D. , Menashe Y. , Oelsner G. , Serr D. M. , Mashiach S. , Ben‐Rafael Z.
Published: January 2011

During the last decade, 154 patients treated with human menopausal gonadotropin humanchorionic gonadotropin developed hyperstimulation necessitating hospitalization in 201 cycles. Moderate ovarian hyperstimulation occurred in 116 of the patients and severe ovarian hyperstimulation in 34. Sixteen patients underwent operative procedures. Twelve patients underwent puncture of the pleura or abdomen to drain symptomic hydrothorax or ascites, with clinical improvement of the symptoms in all of them. Three patients had coagulation abnormalities, and 1 patient had thromboembolic phenomena. Hyperstimulation seems to be associated with an increased pregnancy rate, since seventy‐five pregnancies (35%) occurred in the study group. Appropriate monitoring can reduce the rate of OHSS but it should be kept in mind that death due to OHSS may occur.
Small Family Norm And Uterine Cervical Cancer
Authors: Sehgal Ashok , Murthy N. S. , Satyanarayana L. , Singh Veena , Luthra U. K.
Published: January 2011

Carcinoma of the cervix is known to have a multifactorial etiology and several factors are implicated in increasing the risk of eventual development of cervical malignancy in a woman. This communication attemps to highlight the small family norms in the prevention of uterine cervical cancer. Data on 117,411 cytologically screened women were considered in which 215 women were found to have cervical cancer. Age adjusted rates of malignancy per 100,000 women in three parity groups (0‐2, 3‐4 and 5+) were 91.1, 174.4 and 393.1 respectively. An increasing trend of malignancy was noticed with increasing parity in women who had their consummation of marriage before 18 years as well as after 18 years. It may be concluded that the small family norm (only two children) being advocated as a part of a national family welfare program would be another primary prevention measure against uterine cervical cancer.
Calcium Antagonist Effect On Adhesion Formation
Authors: Golan A. , Wexler S. , Lotan G. , Abramov L. , Langer R. , David M. P.
Published: January 2011

In view of the role of the calcium ion in the inflammatory process, the effect of Diltiazem — a calcium antagonist—on the formation of intraperitoneal adhesions was studied in rats after induced trauma to the uterine serosa. It was found that intraperitoneal application of diltiazem inhibited adhesion formation to some extent, whereas intramuscularly administered Diltiazem did not. A dual effect of calcium antagonists on the formation of adhesions is suggested.
A Double‐Blind Cross‐Over Study Comparing Flurbiprofen With Naproxen‐Sodium For The Treatment Of Primary Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Andersch Björn , Milsom Ian
Published: January 2011

The efficacy of flurbiprofen (100 mg, twice daily) and naproxen‐sodium (500 mg, twice daily) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea was evaluated in a double‐blind cross‐over study. All the women (n =57) complained of severe (23%) or very severe (77%) dysmenorrhea which interfered with their daily life. Frequent absenteeism due to dysmenorrhea was reported by 39% of the women. The severity of pain was reduced (p < 0.001) during treatment with both flurbiprofen and naproxen‐sodium compared with the pain severity before the first dose. There was, however, no significant difference in mean pain relief achieved by the two drugs studied. During the study period, absenteeism was reported by only 6 (11%) and 3 (5%) women when treated with flurbiprofen or naproxen‐sodium respectively. More than 60% of the women reported no or only mild interference with daily activities during treatment. No serious side effects were reported and none of the patients was obliged to terminate treatment because of side effects. Flurbiprofen and naproxen‐sodium, at the dosages indicated, were both shown to be effective in relieving pain in patients suffering from severe primary dysmenorrhea and markedly improved their capacity for normal activities during menstruation.
Sinusoidal Heart Rate Pattern And An Normal Biophysical Profile In A Severely Compromised Fetus
Authors: Yaffe Haim , Kreisberg George A. , Gale Rena
Published: January 2011

A case is described in which a woman complained of weakened fetal movements, and a persistent sinusoidal heart rate pattern was demonstrated in the presence of normal fetal breathing movements, normal fetal tone, and normal amount of amniotic fluid. In view of the subjective complaints and disregarding the normal biophysical profile, termination of pregnancy was performed. A compromised, severely anemic fetus was delivered by cesarean section. The role of sinusoidal heart rate pattern and the limitations of biophysical scores as a single determinant of fetal well being are discussed.
Paravaginal Tumor: Urethrolithiasis In An Ectopic Ureter
Authors: Thomsen Niels O. Bondegaard , Jørgensen Erik Hvidberg
Published: January 2011

A case of long‐standing, undetected urinary tract malformation is presented. Over a period of 15 years the patient had gone for regular examinations by a gynecologist because of paravaginal tumor and urinary incontinence. Operation revealed urinary calculi in an ectopic ureter. Despite of life‐long continuous urinary incontinence, an i.v. pyelography was never offered. Embryology, symptoms and an investigation program concerning ectopic ureter are presented.
A Combination of Gonadotropin‐Releasing Hormone Analog and Human Menopausal Gonadotropins for Ovulation Induction in Premature Ovarian Failure
Authors: Letterie Gerard , Miyazawa Kunio
Published: January 2011

A combination of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist and human menopausal gonadotropins was used for ovulation induction in a patient with premature ovarian failure. A paradoxical suppression of any ovarian response was noted despite increasing doses of human menopausal gonadotropins.
Awareness,knowledge and practice of evidence‐based dentistry amongst dentists in Kuwait
Authors: Haron I. M. , Sabti M. Y. , Omar R.
Published: January 2011

This study assessed the awareness, knowledge and practice of evidence‐based dentistry (EBD) amongst dentists working in the public sector in Kuwait. Of the 150 randomly selected dentists from all five health districts in Kuwait who had originally been approached, 120 participated by completing a pre‐tested, self‐administered questionnaire (80% response rate). Whereas 60.9% of the group stated that they practice EBD most of the time, fewer (40.8%) had a reasonable understanding of EBD based upon tested knowledge scores of EBD‐related topics. Clinical decisions appeared to be mostly based on the clinician’s own judgment (73.3%) rather than on evidence‐based sources such as PubMed (28.3%) or the Cochrane Library (6.7%). A number of within‐group differences were noted, with women (P < 0.05), those working in a particular district (P < 0.05), those with <10 years’ experience (P = 0.05), those whose first dental qualification had been obtained in Kuwait (P < 0.05), and those who had had any EBD training (P < 0.05) showing greater knowledge of EBD. Training in EBD was felt necessary by a majority of the group, and this may be facilitated if dental centres have access to evidence‐based sources to remove some of the possible barriers to implementation of EBD.
Integration of ecology, demography and genetics to reveal population structure and persistence: a mini review and case study of stream‐dwelling Dolly Varden
Authors: Koizumi Itsuro
Published: January 2011

Abstract – Spatial structures can drive population dynamics and persistence. The roles of space and dispersal on dynamics, however, remain largely unknown in wild populations, mainly because of the difficulty in extensive/intensive field surveys at multiple locations. Here, I integrate results of ecological, demographic and genetic studies to elucidate detailed population structure and to identify the mechanisms of population persistence in a stream fish. Spatial structures, such as habitat size and connectivity, are particularly important in river and freshwater networks because such ecosystems are highly vulnerable to human activities. These issues are explored by examining results from a decadal research on the stream‐dwelling Dolly Varden charr in the Sorachi River basin, Japan. More than 100 local habitats (i.e. tributaries) were examined for spatial structure of populations by, such as, species presence, population census, redd counts, analysis of population synchrony and microsatellite DNA analysis. The results indicate that (i) population demography is largely independent in each tributary, (ii) some large tributaries support self‐sustaining populations, (iii) despite small population sizes in most tributaries (<30 spawning females), local extinction is rare, except in human‐influenced areas and (iv) probabilities of extinction are likely reduced by immigration of fish from neighbouring tributaries. The evidence suggests that Dolly Varden in this river system function as a source‐sink or mainland‐island metapopulation structure and that processes influencing these structures vary within the stream network. Overall, local populations may be highly persistent as long as local populations are well connected. I also discuss the vulnerability of stream fishes to habitat alterations.
The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator's Expanding SNARE Interactome
Authors: Tang Bor Luen , Gee Heon Yung , Lee Min Goo
Published: January 2011

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) interacts with multiple N‐ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein (SNARE) molecules largely via its N‐terminal cytoplasmic domain. The earliest known among these SNAREs are the cognate Q‐SNARE pair of Syntaxin 1A (STX1A) and SNAP23 on the plasma membrane. These SNAREs affect CFTR chloride channel gating. CFTR exocytosis/recycling in intestinal epithelial cells is dependent on another SNARE located in the apical plasma membrane, STX3. Members of the STX8/STX7/vesicle transport through interaction with t‐SNAREs homolog 1b/VAMP8 SNARE complex, which function in early to late endosome/lysosome traffic, are all known to interact with CFTR. Two SNAREs, STX6 and STX16 that function at the trans‐Golgi network (TGN), have now been revealed as members of the CFTR SNARE interactome. We summarize here the SNAREs that interact with CFTR and discuss the roles of these SNAREs in the intracellular trafficking of CFTR and CFTR‐associated pathophysiology.
The Contemporary Presidency: The Power and Limitations of Commissions: The Iraq Study Group, Bush, Obama, and Congress
Authors: TAMA JORDAN
Published: January 2011

This article uses a case study of the 2006 Iraq Study Group to illustrate the policy‐making power and limitations of blue‐ribbon commissions. I argue that the distinct political credibility of commissions can enable them to shape public opinion and drive policy change, but that commissions usually cannot bridge partisan divides on highly salient issues marked by intense polarization. The case study reveals that the Iraq Study Group influenced public views of George W. Bush's Iraq policy, placed significant pressure on Bush to change his Iraq strategy, and shaped the Iraq plan of Barack Obama—even though the commission was unable to forge agreement between Bush and Democratic congressional leaders.
The Law: John Yoo and the Republic
Authors: FISHER LOUIS
Published: January 2011

In his articles, books, and legal memoranda for the U.S. Department of Justice, John Yoo is well known for favoring broad and even exclusive presidential power in the field of national security. Less understood is his dependence on the British model and the prerogatives it extended to the king over external affairs. In his writings, Yoo devotes little attention to the framers' rejection of British executive prerogatives. Even less does he acknowledge their commitment to a republic, a form of government in which sovereign power is vested not in an executive but in the people.
Autophosphorylation of heme‐regulated eukaryotic initiation factor 2α kinase and the role of the modification in catalysis
Authors: Igarashi Jotaro , Sasaki Takehiko , Kobayashi Noriko , Yoshioka Shinji , Matsushita Miyuki , Shimizu Toru
Published: January 2011

Heme‐regulated eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) kinase (HRI), functions in response to heme shortage in reticulocytes and aids in the maintenance of a heme:globin ratio of 1:1. Under normal conditions, heme binds to HRI and blocks its function. However, during heme shortage, heme dissociates from the protein and autophosphorylation subsequently occurs. Autophosphorylation comprises a preliminary critical step before the execution of the intrinsic function of HRI; specifically, phosphorylation of Ser‐51 of eIF2α to inhibit translation of the globin protein. The present study indicates that dephosphorylated mouse HRI exhibits strong intramolecular interactions (between the N‐terminal and C‐terminal domains) compared to phosphorylated HRI. It is therefore suggested that autophosphorylation reduces the intramolecular interaction, which induces irreversible catalytic flow to the intrinsic eIF2α kinase activity after heme dissociates from the protein. With the aid of MS, we identified 33 phosphorylated sites in mouse HRI overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Phosphorylated sites at Ser, Thr and Tyr were predominantly localized within the kinase insertion region (16 sites) and kinase domain (12 sites), whereas the N‐terminal domain contained five sites. We further generated 30 enzymes with mutations at the phosphorylated residues and examined their catalytic activities. The activities of Y193F, T485A and T490A mutants were significantly lower than that of wild‐type protein, whereas the other mutant proteins displayed essentially similar activity. Accordingly, we suggest that Tyr193, Thr485 and Thr490 are essential residues in the catalysis.
Implementing an evidence‐based metabolic syndrome prevention and treatment program utilizing group visits
Authors: Greer Deborah M. , Hill Dawn C.
Published: January 2011

Purpose: To develop and implement a pilot program designed as a shared medical group visit targeting metabolic syndrome prevention in two ethnically diverse patient populations.

Data sources: The Cooperative Health Care Clinics (CHCC) module was utilized for group sessions to focus on interactive discussions following the L.E.A.R.N. format in order to encourage healthy lifestyle changes. Participants completed a pre‐ and postknowledge base test that encompassed information on healthy lifestyle changes in addition to disease processes associated with metabolic syndrome. Each didactic session was evaluated using mean ± standard deviation for the knowledge tests. Analysis of variance was used in determining body mass index (BMI) and weight measured at weeks 1, 5, and 10. Participants completed a 5‐point Likert scale satisfaction survey on week 10. Independent means t‐test compared clinic results along with the Satterthwaite approximate t‐test because of unequal sample sizes to evaluate differences in means.

Conclusions: There were no significant statistical differences in mean weight or BMI on weeks 1 and 5. However, on week 10, there was a statistically significant difference for waist circumference in both clinics (p= .0466). Knowledge base improved in both clinics with a premean (0 score = 87 ± 18) and postmean (0 score = 93 ± 14). Both sites received high scores for patient satisfaction.

Implications for practice: The shared medical group visits program implemented in both clinic sites demonstrated that this is an effective model in which to provide intensive patient education, foster peer support, and facilitate health‐related behavioral changes. Peer support, self‐management, and continuity appear to be important factors in behavior change and improved knowledge.
The Effect of Transdermal Glyceryl Trinitrate on 24 h Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Acute/Subacute Stroke
Authors: Geeganage Chamila M. , Bath Andrew J. G. , Bath Philip M. W.
Published: January 2011

Background

High blood pressure is a common complication in acute stroke and is associated with a poor outcome.

Aims

This study assesses the effects of transdermal glyceryl trinitrate on 24 h ambulatory blood pressure in patients with recent stroke.

Methods

One hundred and seven patients with acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke were included. The patients had been enrolled in one of two trials of transdermal glyceryl trinitrate (5 mg daily) or placebo/control, and underwent 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (56 glyceryl trinitrate, 51 control). Ambulatory blood pressure data were analysed using area under the curve for the entire 24 h, and day and night periods. Nocturnal dipping was defined as a decline in systolic blood pressure >10%. Comparisons of blood pressure between groups were performed by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with adjustments for trial and baseline measure.

Results

In comparison with control, glyceryl trinitrate significantly lowered 24 h blood pressure (systolic blood pressure/ diastolic blood pressure 9·4/4·8 mmHg, P < 0·001/0·001, n = 104), daytime blood pressure (8·7/4·2, P < 0·001/ < 0·001, n = 103) and night-time blood pressure (6·9/1·7, P = 0·008/0·458, n = 86). Only 86 patients (glyceryl trinitrate 45, placebo/control 41) had sufficient night blood pressure measurements to assign dipping status; 28 were dippers (12 glyceryl trinitrate, 16 control) and 58 were nondippers (33 glyceryl trinitrate, 25 control); glyceryl trinitrate significantly lowered systolic but not diastolic blood pressure in both dippers and nondippers. Treatment with glyceryl trinitrate increased the daytime heart rate (4·8 beats/min) but not the night-time heart rate. Patients whose blood pressure did not dip at night had a worse functional outcome at three-months.

Conclusions

Transdermal glyceryl trinitrate (5 mg) significantly lowered 24 h blood pressure by 9/5 mmHg (equivalent to a 6% reduction) in both dipping and nondipping patients with acute/subacute stroke. This reduction in blood pressure is clinically relevant and is unlikely to be excessive.
Hematopoietic progenitor migration to the adult thymus
Authors: Zlotoff Daniel A. , Bhandoola Avinash
Published: January 2011

Although most hematopoietic lineages develop in the bone marrow (BM), T cells uniquely complete their development in the specialized environment of the thymus. Hematopoietic stem cells with long‐term self‐renewal capacity are not present in the thymus. As a result, continuous T cell development requires that BM‐derived progenitors be imported into the thymus throughout adult life. The process of thymic homing begins with the mobilization of progenitors out of the BM, continues with their circulation in the bloodstream, and concludes with their settling in the thymus. This review will discuss each of these steps as they occur in the unirradiated and postirradiation scenarios, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of regulation. Improved knowledge about these early steps in T cell generation may accelerate the development of new therapeutic options in patients with impaired T cell number or function.