bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the neurochemical and behavioural profiles of lisdexamfetamine methylphenidate and modafinil revealed by simultaneous dual-probe microdialysis and locomotor activity measurements in freely-moving rats
Authors: Rowley Helen L , Kulkarni Rajiv S , Gosden Jane , Brammer Richard J , Hackett David , Heal David J
Published: December 2013

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is a novel prodrug approved in North America, Europe and Brazil for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It undergoes rate-limited hydrolysis by red blood cells to yield d-amphetamine. Following our previous work comparing lisdexamfetamine with d-amphetamine, the neurochemical and behavioural profiles of lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate and modafinil were compared by dual-probe microdialysis in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and striatum of conscious rats with simultaneous locomotor activity measurement. We employed pharmacologically equivalent doses of all compounds and those that spanned the therapeutically relevant and psychostimulant range. Lisdexamfetamine (0.5, 1.5, 4.5 mg/kg d-amphetamine base, per os (po)), methylphenidate (3, 10, 30 mg/kg base, po) and modafinil (100, 300, 600 mg/kg base, po) increased efflux of dopamine and noradrenaline in PFC, and dopamine in striatum. Only lisdexamfetamine increased 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) efflux in PFC and striatum. Lisdexamfetamine had larger and more sustained effects on catecholaminergic neurotransmission than methylphenidate or modafinil. Linear correlations were observed between striatal dopamine efflux and locomotor activity for lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, but not modafinil. Regression slopes revealed greater increases in extracellular dopamine could be elicited without producing locomotor activation by lisdexamfetamine than methylphenidate. These results are consistent with clinical findings showing that lisdexamfetamine is an effective ADHD medication with prolonged duration of action and good separation between its therapeutic actions and stimulant side-effects.
Evidence for a crucial modulating role of the sodium channel in the QTc prolongation related to antipsychotics
Authors: Silvestre Jordi S , O’Neill Michael F , Prous Josep R
Published: December 2013

Blockade of the cardiac hERG channel is recognized as the main mechanism underlying the QT prolongation induced by many classes of drugs, including antipsychotics. However, antipsychotics interact with a variety of other pharmacological targets that could also modulate cardiac function. The present study aims to identify those key factors involved in the QT prolongation induced by antipsychotics. The interactions of 28 antipsychotics were measured on a variety of pharmacological targets. Binding affinity (Ki), functional channel blockade (IC50), and the corresponding ratios to total and free plasma drug concentration were compared with the corrected QT changes (QTc) associated with the therapeutic use of these drugs by multivariable linear regression analysis to determine the best predictors of QTc. Besides confirming hERG as the primary predictor of QTc, all analyses consistently show the concomitant involvement of NaV1.5 channel as modulating factor of the QTc related to hERG blockade. In particular, the hERG/NaV1.5 ratio explains the 57% of the overall QTc variability associated with antipsychotics. Since it is known that inhibition of late INa could offset the dysfunctional effects of hERG blockade, we hypothesize the inhibition of late INa as a crucial compensatory mechanism of the QTc associated with antipsychotics and hence an important factor to consider concomitantly with hERG blockade to appraise the arrhythmogenic risk of these drugs more accurately.
Accuracy of computed tomography findings in acute pericarditis
Authors: Hammer Mark M , Raptis Constantine A , Javidan-Nejad Cylen , Bhalla Sanjeev
Published: December 2013

Background:

Acute pericarditis is a close clinical mimic of pulmonary embolism (PE) in the emergency department, and thus many of these patients are evaluated with chest computed tomography (CT).

Purpose:

To study whether CT findings can be diagnostic of acute pericarditis.

Material and Methods:

Using the electronic medical record, we retrospectively identified 46 cases of acute pericarditis and 46 control patients with pericardial effusions due to volume overload, all of whom underwent CT examination. Cases were reviewed by two blinded academic thoracic radiologists.

Results:

The majority, 67%, of the pericarditis cases were evaluated with PE-protocol CTs. Pericardial thickening/enhancement was the most accurate single parameter for pericarditis, with sensitivity of 54–59% and specificity of 91–96%.

Conclusion:

CT findings, while not sensitive for pericarditis, are diagnostic, with few false-positives. Radiologists should be attentive to pericardial thickening or enhancement on CT studies done for chest pain, as they may be able to suggest pericarditis as an alternative diagnosis for the chest pain.
Mechanism of temozolomide-induced antitumour effects on glioma cells
Authors: Shen Wei , Hu Jun-An , Zheng Jie-Sheng
Published: December 2013

Objective

To investigate the mechanisms of action of the tumoricidal effects of temozolomide against the human glioma cell line U251 in vitro, and to provide preclinical proof-of-concept studies of the effects of temozolomide-containing regimens.

Methods

U251 cells were exposed to 100 µmol/l temozolomide. Morphological alterations were monitored by light microscopy. Cell viability was measured using the 3 -(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell cycle analysis and the rate of apoptosis were determined using flow cytometry and the number of acidic vesicular organelles stained with acridine orange were analysed by fluorescence microscopy. The scratch recovery test was used to measure cell migration.

Results

U251 cells that were treated with temozolomide displayed morphological alterations indicative of a rounder shape and impaired cellular adhesion to the cell culture plate compared with control U251 cells. Temozolomide reduced cell viability as measured by the MTT assay, caused cell cycle arrest in the gap 2/mitosis phase, inhibited cell migration and promoted autophagy in U251 cells.

Conclusion

Temozolomide induced autophagic, but not apoptotic processes, in U251 cells and thus reduced their viability and migration.
Upper extremity morbidity after radial forearm flap harvest: a prospective study
Authors: Fang Qi-Gen , Shi Shuang , Zhang Xu , Li Zhen-Ning , Liu Fa-Yu , Sun Chang-Fu
Published: December 2013

Objective

To determine the effect of radial forearm free (RFF) flap harvest on patient-reported postoperative upper extremity disability.

Methods

Patients undergoing RFF flap reconstruction following resection of head and neck cancer were recruited and matched with similar patients undergoing non-RFF reconstruction. All subjects completed the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire preoperatively and at least 1 year postoperatively.

Results

Postoperative DASH scores were significantly higher (more severe disability) in patients undergoing RFF flap reconstruction (6.93 ± 5.54; n = 52) compared with those undergoing non-RFF flap surgeries (2.95 ± 4.42; n = 52). Preoperative DASH score, flap size, patient age and tumour stage were significantly correlated with postoperative DASH score.

Conclusion

Excluding the effect of neck dissection, RFF flap reconstruction has a significant deleterious effect on upper extremity function.
Randomized, proof-of-principle clinical trial of active transcranial magnetic stimulation in chronic migraine
Authors: Conforto Adriana B , Amaro Edson , Gonçalves André L , Mercante Juliane PP , Guendler Vera Z , Ferreira Josione R , Kirschner Clara CFB , Peres Mario FP
Published: December 2013

Background

High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rTMS-DLPFC) is an effective treatment for depression. Preliminary studies indicated beneficial effects of rTMS-DLPFC on pain relief in patients treated for depression, and in patients with chronic migraine.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, single-center, proof-of-principle clinical trial, we tested the hypothesis that 23 sessions of active rTMS-DLPFC delivered over eight weeks would be feasible, safe and superior to sham rTMS to decrease the number of headache days in 18 patients with chronic migraine without severe depression. Per-protocol analysis was performed.

Results

rTMS-DLPFC applied over eight weeks was feasible and safe in patients with chronic migraine. Contrary to our primary hypothesis, the number of headache days decreased significantly more in the sham group than in the group treated with active rTMS-DLPFC at eight weeks. Average decrease in headache days was >50% in the sham group, indicating a powerful placebo response. Pain intensity improved in both groups to a similar extent.

Conclusions

Positive results of M1 stimulation in other studies, and the absence of significant benefits of active high-frequency rTMS of the DLPFC in the present study, point to M1 as a more promising target than the DLPFC, for larger trials of noninvasive brain stimulation in patients with chronic migraine.
Do nocturnal headaches matter? A prospective diary study on subjective sleep parameters in snorers and their bed partners
Authors: Seidel Stefan , Frantal Sophie , Salhofer-Polanyi Sabine , Lieba-Samal Doris , Zeitlhofer Josef , Wöber Christian
Published: December 2013

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the influence of nocturnal headaches (NH) on subjective sleep parameters prospectively in habitual snorers and their bed partners.

Methods

We recruited habitual snorers and their bed partners via newspaper articles. The participants completed a semistructured interview, filled in questionnaires about quality of sleep (PSQI), daytime sleepiness (ESS), depression (SDS) and anxiety (SAS) and they kept a 90-day headache and sleep diary.

Results

Seventy-six snorers (25 female) and 41 bed partners (31 female) completed the study recording a total of 6690 and 3497 diary days, respectively. NH were recorded on 222 (3.3%) and 79 (2.2%) days in 32 (42%) snorers and 17 (41%) bed partners, respectively. Snorers with NH showed significantly higher PSQI (5 ± 3 vs. 4 ± 2, p = 0.004), SAS (38 ± 11 vs. 31 ± 10, p = 0.011) and SDS scores (39 ± 12 vs. 34 ± 10, p = 0.048) than snorers without NH. For bed partners with NH we found a significant female predominance (sex ratio f:m = 16:1 vs. 12:12, p = 0.005) and significantly higher SAS scores (38 ± 6 vs. 33 ± 8, p = 0.030) compared with bed partners without NH. The subjective quality of sleep in habitual snorers ( p < 0.001) as well as their bed partners ( p = 0.017) was negatively influenced by NH, but not total sleep time.

Discussion

NH occurred in around 40% of snorers and their bed partners at least once during the 90-day observation period. Our results confirmed a negative impact on the subjective quality of sleep in both groups.
Marriage in Córdoba City (Argentina) in the Late-Colonial and Early-Independent Periods
Authors: Colantonio Sonia , Küffer Claudio , Nazer Juan
Published: December 2013

Married couples in Córdoba City (Argentina) were studied from the census data of 1778, 1795, 1813, 1822, and 1832. Homogamy regarding ethnic group, juridical status, and the title “Don/Doña” was analyzed through contingence coefficients as well as inbreeding and mate preferences among lineages, using the isonymy and repeated pair methods. Class endogamy was revealed in all groups and homogamy was found for various characteristics. The inbreeding was low, but repeated pairs of surnames indicated associated family lines in the Spanish group. A temporal analysis showed that both indicators were higher in times of sociopolitical instability.
Thermal conductivity and thermal stability enhancement of ethylene propylene diene methylene with carbon nanotube
Authors: Zhang Xiubin , Zhang Haiyan , Lin Jin , Li Liping , Wu Qiguang
Published: December 2013

In this article, the ethylene propylene diene methylene rubber composites filled with pretreated multi-walled carbon nanotubes were prepared by a double-roll milling dispersion method. The thermal and mechanical properties of the composites were measured and evaluated. The morphology of pretreated multi-walled carbon nanotubes was studied via transmission electron microscopy and the dispersity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes in ethylene propylene diene methylene was determined using scanning electron microscope. By means of thermogravimetric analysis, the thermal stability and oxidation resistance of ethylene propylene diene methylene filled with different content of multi-walled carbon nanotubes were examined. The results showed that the pretreated multi-walled carbon nanotubes can improve the thermal conductivity and increase the thermal decomposition temperature. However, different filling content of multi-walled carbon nanotubes showed different effects on the mechanical performance of ethylene propylene diene methylene.
Experimental study on uniaxial and biaxial tensile properties of coated fabric for airship envelopes
Authors: Chen Jianwen , Chen Wujun , Zhang Daxu
Published: December 2013

This article presents an experimental study to determine the tensile properties of the envelope fabric Uretek3216A under mono-uniaxial, uniaxial cyclic, and biaxial cyclic loading. First, the mono-uniaxial, uniaxial cyclic, and biaxial cyclic tests were carefully carried out on the envelope fabric, and the corresponding stress–strain behaviors were discussed. Then, the elastic constants were calculated from the experimental data of these tests and the influences of the uniaxial loading cycle and the determination options with different stress ratios were discussed. For the biaxial tests, the elastic constants were determined with and without the constraint of the reciprocal relationship to investigate its significance. Finally, a comparison of the elastic moduli between uniaxial and biaxial tensile tests was presented. Results show that the nonlinearity and orthotropy of the envelope fabric could be attributed to the mechanical properties and unbalanced crimp of their constitutive yarns, respectively. The elastic constants vary noticeably with the experimental protocols, as well as the determination options for biaxial tests, and then in the real design practice, elastic constants should be determined for specific loading conditions and stress distributions depending on the project’s needs.
Sex of College Students Moderates Associations among Bedtime, Time in Bed, and Circadian Phase Angle
Authors: Van Reen Eliza , Sharkey Katherine M. , Roane Brandy M. , Barker David , Seifer Ronald , Raffray Tifenn , Bond Tamara L. , Carskadon Mary A.
Published: December 2013

Sex differences in circadian rhythms have been reported with some conflicting results. The timing of sleep and length of time in bed have not been considered, however, in previous such studies. The current study has 3 major aims: (1) replicate previous studies in a large sample of young adults for sex differences in sleep patterns and dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) phase; (2) in a subsample constrained by matching across sex for bedtime and time in bed, confirm sex differences in DLMO and phase angle of DLMO to bedtime; (3) explore sex differences in the influence of sleep timing and length of time in bed on phase angle. A total of 356 first-year Brown University students (207 women) aged 17.7 to 21.4 years (mean = 18.8 years, SD = 0.4 years) were included in these analyses. Wake time was the only sleep variable that showed a sex difference. DLMO phase was earlier in women than men and phase angle wider in women than men. Shorter time in bed was associated with wider phase angle in women and men. In men, however, a 3-way interaction indicated that phase angles were influenced by both bedtime and time in bed; a complex interaction was not found for women. These analyses in a large sample of young adults on self-selected schedules confirm a sex difference in wake time, circadian phase, and the association between circadian phase and reported bedtime. A complex interaction with length of time in bed occurred for men but not women. We propose that these sex differences likely indicate fundamental differences in the biology of the sleep and circadian timing systems as well as in behavioral choices.
Temporal Dynamics of Ocular Indicators of Sleepiness across Sleep Restriction
Authors: Ftouni Suzanne , Rahman Shadab A. , Crowley Kate E. , Anderson Clare , Rajaratnam Shantha M.W. , Lockley Steven W.
Published: December 2013

The current study characterized the temporal dynamics of ocular indicators of sleepiness during extended sleep restriction. Ten male participants (mean age ± SD = 23.3 ± 1.6 years) underwent 40 h of continuous wakefulness under constant routine (CR) conditions; they completed the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) and a 10-min auditory psychomotor vigilance task (aPVT) hourly. Waking electroencephalography (EEG) and ocular measures were recorded continuously throughout the CR. Infrared-reflectance oculography was used to collect the ocular measures positive and negative amplitude-velocity ratio, mean blink duration, the percentage of eye closure, and a composite score of sleepiness levels (Johns Drowsiness Scale). All ocular measures, except blink duration, displayed homeostatic and circadian properties. Only circadian effects were detected in blink duration. Significant, phase-locked cross-correlations ( p < 0.05 ) were detected between ocular measures and aPVT reaction time (RT), aPVT lapses, KSS, and EEG delta-theta (0.5-5.5 Hz), theta-alpha (5.0-9.0 Hz), and beta (13.0-20.0 Hz) activity. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated reasonable sensitivity and specificity of ocular measures in correctly classifying aPVT lapses above individual baseline thresholds (initial 16 h of wakefulness). Under conditions of sleep restriction, ocular indicators of sleepiness paralleled performance impairment and self-rated sleepiness levels, and demonstrated their potential to detect sleepiness-related attentional lapses. These findings, if reproduced in a larger sample, will have implications for the use of ocular-based sleepiness-warning systems in operational settings.
The Bird Circadian Clock: Insights from a Computational Model
Authors: Woller Aurore , Gonze Didier
Published: December 2013

The circadian timekeeping system appears more complex in birds than in mammals. In mammals, the main pacemaker is centralized in the suprachiasmatic nuclei, whereas in birds, the pacemaker involves the interplay between the pineal and hypothalamic oscillators. In order to investigate the consequence of this complex mechanism, we propose here a mathematical model for the bird circadian clock. The model is based on the internal resonance between the pineal and hypothalamic oscillators, each described by Goodwin-like equations. We show that, consistently with experimental observations, self-sustained oscillations can be generated by mutual inhibitory coupling of the 2 clocks, even if individual oscillators present damped oscillations. We study the effect of constant and periodic administrations of melatonin, which, in intact birds, acts as the coupling variable between the pineal and the hypothalamus, and compare the prediction of the model with the experiments performed in pinealectomized birds. We also assess the entrainment properties when the system is subject to light-dark cycles. Analyses of the entrainment range, resynchronization time after jet lag, and entrainment phase with respect to the photoperiod lead us to formulate hypotheses about the physiological advantage of the particular architecture of the avian circadian clock. Although minimal, our model opens promising perspectives in modeling and understanding the bird circadian clock.
A preliminary study on amelogenin-loaded electrospun scaffolds
Authors: McCool Jennifer M , Rodriguez Isaac A , Sell Scott A , Han Yang , Bowlin Gary L
Published: December 2013

Amelogenin is a major enamel matrix protein onto which developing enamel forms. In the realm of tissue engineering, amelogenin has been studied and applied to periodontal and wound healing applications. This study introduces the first attempts of incorporating amelogenin within an electrospun scaffold. Amelogenin was extracted from porcine unerupted tooth buds and electrospun with poly(glycolic acid) and poly(ϵ-caprolactone). Protein release kinetics, mechanical properties, fiber diameter, mineralization potential, and cell adhesion properties of the amelogenin-blended scaffolds were studied and compared to the electrospun poly(glycolic acid) and poly(ϵ-caprolactone) controls. Electrospun scaffolds loaded with amelogenin were incubated in phosphate buffer saline. Protein quantification and morphological and mechanical analyses were conducted on the degraded scaffolds, and the incubated phosphate buffer saline was also tested for protein content. Fresh scaffolds were incubated overnight in conventional simulated body fluid to evaluate mineralization potential of the incorporated electrospun amelogenin. Human dermal fibroblasts were seeded onto scaffolds, incubated overnight, cryosectioned, and stained with 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole to determine cellular adhesive properties. The incorporation of 5 mg/mL amelogenin into electrospun scaffolds improved mechanical properties (in poly(ϵ-caprolactone) scaffolds), increased fiber mineralization (in poly(glycolic acid) scaffolds), and improved human dermal fibroblast adhesion (in poly(ϵ-caprolactone) scaffolds). The presented results suggest that amelogenin can be used for multiple tissue engineering applications in the form of an additive to an electrospun scaffold.
Static versus vacuum cell seeding on high and low porosity ceramic scaffolds
Authors: Buizer Arina T , Veldhuizen Albert G , Bulstra Sjoerd K , Kuijer Roel
Published: December 2013

An adequate cell seeding technique is essential for effective bone regeneration on cell seeded constructs of porous tricalcium phosphates. In previous studies, dynamic cell seeding, in which an external force is applied to seed cells on a biomaterial, resulted in more homogeneous cell seeding in low porosity scaffolds than static seeding. The optimal cell seeding technique for high porosity scaffolds has not been defined yet. Human mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from bone marrow and characterized. The cells were seeded on low porosity (45%) and high porosity (90%) tricalcium phosphate scaffolds using a static and a vacuum seeding technique. LIVE/DEAD® staining of the cell-scaffold complexes followed by confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to measure cell proliferation, cell distribution and cell viability one, three and seven days after seeding. Cell proliferation was also quantified using a DNA quantification assay. Neither static nor vacuum seeding resulted in homogeneous cell seeding on both low and high porosity scaffolds. Cell density was lower on the inside than on the outside of the scaffolds. On low porosity scaffolds, the vacuum method yielded the highest numbers of cells compared to the static method. Low porosity scaffolds were seeded most homogeneously using the static seeding method. Seven days after seeding, numbers of adherent cells were comparable for both scaffold types and independent of the cell seeding technique used. In conclusion, on high porosity scaffolds, static seeding results in more homogeneous cell seeding and it is easier to use than a vacuum seeding technique.
Effects of releasing recombinant human growth and differentiation factor-5 from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres for repair of the rat degenerated intervertebral disc
Authors: Yan Jihong , Yang Shu , Sun Huaimei , Guo Duo , Wu Bo , Ji Fengqing , Zhou Deshan
Published: December 2013

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres loaded with recombinant human growth and differentiation factor-5 (rhGDF-5) on the disc degeneration induced by needle puncture in a rat caudal disc model.

Methods:

The rhGDF-5-loaded PLGA microspheres were prepared by the water-oil-water double-emulsion solvent evaporation method, and release kinetics was determined over 42 days. Rats that underwent 21-G needle puncture at rat tail discs were injected with rhGDF-5/PLGA microspheres at four weeks after needle injury. At eight weeks after the injection, disc height, glycosaminoglycans content, and DNA content of the discs were evaluated. In addition, gene expression analysis of aggrecan, collagen type I, and collagen type II in the rat nucleus pulposus was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Rat discs were also assessed by histology using hematoxylin and eosin stain.

Results:

Encapsulation of rhGDF-5 in PLGA microspheres guaranteed a sustained release of active rhGDF-5 for more than 42 days. The injection of GDF-5/PLGA microspheres resulted in a statistically significant restoration of disc height ( p < 0.01), improvement of sulfated glycosaminoglycan ( p < 0.05), DNA content ( p < 0.05), and significantly increased mRNA levels of collagen type II ( p < 0.01), and the differentiation index (the ratio of collagen type II to collagen type I, p < 0.01). In addition, rhGDF-5/PLGA microspheres treatment also improved histological changes induced by needle puncture.

Conclusions:

The results of this study suggest that injection of rhGDF-5 loaded in PLGA microspheres into rat tail discs may be as a promising therapy strategy to regenerate or repair the degenerative disc.
A scalable approach to obtain mesenchymal stem cells with osteogenic potency on apatite microcarriers
Authors: Feng Jason , Chong Mark , Chan Jerry , Zhang Zhiyong , Teoh Swee Hin , Thian Eng San
Published: December 2013

Bone tissue engineering, which relies on the interactions between stem cells and suitable scaffold materials, represents a highly desirable alternative to currently used allograft or autograft strategies for the treatment of bone defects caused by injury or disease, with one of the major challenges being to generate sufficient quantities of stem cells to bring about the intended therapeutic effect. However, conventional cell culture to achieve sufficient cell numbers faces limitations of low efficiency and diminished efficacy of stem cells due to repeated passaging. Furthermore, current microcarriers available may not be suitable for therapeutic implantation. Here, the authors featured an apatite-based microcarrier intended for bone tissue engineering applications. These apatite microcarriers have a diameter of ∼230 µm, and exhibited porous and rough surface morphology. Peaks obtained from X-ray diffractometry (XRD) corresponded to hydroxyapatite (HA) with high crystallinity. Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR) showed that no residues of alginate remained, and all bands observed belong to phosphate and hydroxyl groups of HA. To evaluate the cytocompatibility of these microcarriers, in vitro proliferation studies were conducted and compared with conventional monolayer as well as Cytodex 3. The authors found that human foetal mesenchymal stem cells (hfMSCs) cultured on apatite microcarriers exhibited comparable growth characteristics, achieving 1.4-fold higher live cells than Cytodex 3 over a 9-day culture period. As these microcarriers were hypothesised to offer enhanced osteogenic potency over conventional monolayer culture, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), type I collagen and osteocalcin expression of hfMSCs cultured on the apatite microcarriers were evaluated over a 12-day period. ALP expression for hfMSCs seeded on apatite microcarriers was 2.7-fold higher than that of adherent monolayer culture ( p < 0.001). Additionally, type I collagen and osteocalcin expression were 1.8- and 1.5-fold higher than that of adherent monolayer culture on day 12, respectively ( p < 0.001).
Consumers With Disabilities
Authors: Chang Hyo Jung (Julie) , Hodges Nancy , Yurchisin Jennifer
Published: December 2013

As the presence of disabled consumers has become more prevalent in social and occupational life, attention to the clothing needs of consumers with disabilities has increased. However, research about disabled consumers and their dress behavior remains scant. This study is designed to understand disabled consumers’dress behavior, specifically clothing selection and meanings. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 disabled consumers. Five themes emerged as important to understanding their clothing behaviors: form and function, self-expression, social identity, self-efficacy, and symbols of victory. Themes are discussed relative to the literature on apparel meaning and consumer behavior, and findings are discussed within the framework of self-efficacy theory. Potential implications of this study and directions for future research are discussed.
Redesigning Special Education Teacher Preparation Programs With a Focus on Outcomes
Authors: Sayeski Kristin L. , Higgins Kyle
Published: December 2013

As one component of a program improvement grant provided by the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEPs), the authors’ teacher preparation program (TPP) underwent substantial program redesign. In this article, the authors provide a detailed overview of the process they undertook to revamp their program based on the fundamental question, “Upon graduation, what should our graduates know and be able to do?” Using a q-sort technique as the foundation, faculty identified “high priority” topics and used these topics as a guide for developing new courses, assignments, and experiences within the authors’ TPP. An overview of the q-sort technique and how the authors applied it to bring about specific, programmatic changes will be detailed. In addition, information on how this process can be applied to other TPPs is presented.
Intensive Care Unit Delirium
Authors: Kalabalik Julie , Brunetti Luigi , El-Srougy Radwa
Published: December 2013

Purpose:

The recent literature regarding intensive care unit (ICU) delirium and updated clinical practice guidelines are reviewed.

Recent studies show that ICU delirium in critically ill patients is an independent predictor of higher mortality, longer ICU and hospital stay, and is associated with multiple clinical complications. Delirium has been reported to occur in greater than 80% of hospitalized critically ill patients, yet it remains an underdiagnosed condition. Several subtypes of delirium have been identified including hypoactive, hyperactive, and mixed presentation. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, several factors are thought to interact to cause delirium. Multiple risk factors related to medications, acute illness, the environment, and patient characteristics may contribute to the development of delirium. Practical bedside screening tools have been validated and are recommended to identify ICU patients with delirium. Nonpharmacologic interventions such as early mobilization have resulted in better functional outcomes, decreased incidence and duration of delirium, and more ventilator-free days. Data supporting pharmacologic treatments are limited.

Conclusion:

Clinicians should become familiar with tools to identify delirium in order to initiate treatment and remove mitigating factors early in hospitalization to prevent delirium. Pharmacists are in a unique position to reduce delirium through minimization of medication-related risk factors and development of protocols.
Management of Prediabetes
Authors: Anderson Zachary L. , Scopelliti Emily M. , Trompeter Jessica M. , Havrda Dawn E.
Published: December 2013

Purpose: To compare the management of prediabetes between a family practice clinic and internal medicine/endocrinology practice. Methods: A randomized, retrospective evaluation of the medical history in 168 eligible patients with a diagnosis of prediabetes or abnormal blood glucose (BG) at a family practice clinic (n = 78) and an internal medicine/endocrinology practice (n = 90). Results: The internal medicine/endocrinology practice provided more counseling regarding lifestyle modifications (91.1% vs 76.9%, P = .039), specific physical activity recommendations (26.7% vs 7.7%, P = .003), and recommended more patients receive 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise (8.9% vs 1.3%, P = .038). The family practice clinic provided more written dietary information (16.9% vs 13.3%, P = .044) and specific weight loss goals (20.5% vs 6.7%, P = .015). The internal medicine/endocrinology practice initiated pharmacological therapy in more patients (51.1% vs 3.8%, P< .001) and had a significant decrease in fasting BG from baseline compared to the family practice clinic (−9.0 vs −5.6 mg/dL, P< .001). Conclusion: Providers are likely to initiate nonpharmacological therapy but may not provide specific education recommended by the American Diabetes Association. The integration of a multidisciplinary team to provide guideline-based nonpharmacologic counseling may be beneficial in improving outcomes in the management of prediabetes.
The gravity of eros in the contemporary
Authors: Horvath Agnes , Szakolczai Arpad
Published: December 2013

The study of eros as passionate devotion leads back to the classical foundations of social and political analysis, in particular Plato’s philosophical anthropology, focusing on imitation and not rationality as the moving force of social life.
Testing musical ability
Authors: Treichler F. Robert
Published: December 2013

Both American and European investigators have long searched for factors that contribute to musical proficiency. The present article considers several interpretations of musical talent that were advanced by persons who were themselves skilled musicians. Especial emphasis is afforded to the approach of Raleigh M. Drake, an American, who obtained his PhD in Europe, but opposed the most widely utilized early 20th-century American conception of musical talent. Drake also interacted with several early and eminent American psychologists in considering the underlying issue of ‘special talents’. The scholarly contributions of Drake are assessed both in terms of their relationship to some early 20th-century conceptions of musical talent and as a prospective influence on other investigations of that ability.
Principles for aerospace Manufacturing Engineering in integrated New Product Introduction
Authors: Maginness Malachy , Shehab Essam , Beadle Chris , Carswell Matt
Published: December 2013

This article investigates the value-adding practices of Manufacturing Engineering for integrated New Product Introduction. A model representing how current practices align to support lean integration in Manufacturing Engineering has been defined. The results are used to identify a novel set of guiding principles for integrated Manufacturing Engineering. These are as follows: (1) use a data-driven process, (2) build from core capabilities, (3) develop the standard, (4) deliver through responsive processes and (5) align cross-functional and customer requirements. The investigation used a mixed-method approach. This comprises case studies to identify current practice and a survey to understand implementation in a sample of component development projects within a major aerospace manufacturer. The research contribution is an illustration of aerospace Manufacturing Engineering practices for New Product Introduction. The conclusions will be used to indicate new priorities for New Product Introduction and the cross-functional interactions to support flawless and innovative New Product Introduction. The final principles have been validated through a series of consultations with experts in the sponsoring company to ensure that correct and relevant content has been defined.
Nonlinear vibration of stringer shell: An analytical approach
Authors: Pakar I , Bayat M
Published: December 2013

In this study, we try to analyze the free nonlinear vibration of a stringer shell analytically. The nonlinear governing equation of the problem is derived. Homotopy perturbation method is applied completely to obtain the analytical solution of the problem. We try to provide engineers and designers to achieve the nonlinear frequency of nonlinear problems especially shell vibrations with an easy method. The effects of different parameters on the ratio of nonlinear to linear natural frequency of shells are completely studied. The homotopy perturbation method gives us an excellent agreement with numerical results for whole range of the oscillation amplitude. The first order of homotopy perturbation method leads us to highly accurate solutions as indicated in this paper.
A portable piston-type water mist fire extinguisher for spacecraft
Authors: Zhuo Jiang , Yinshui Liu , Xufeng Zhao , Wudi Fang
Published: December 2013

A new type of water mist fire extinguisher was proposed to be used in the manned spacecraft. The goal of prototype is that it can extinguish class 8B fires on the ground and its mass is less than 2.5 kg. The prototype employed only water as suppression agents. In the extinguisher, a piston separated the water from nitrogen artificially, which dispels the influence of the gravity on discharging. It possesses some advantages, such as high reliability, easy refilling of water and nitrogen, long life span, and convenient maintenance. A pressure-swirl nozzle was employed to produce water mist. There was no part to keep the pressure constant at the nozzle’s entrance; the service pressure of nozzle was determined in the range from 6 to 15 MPa. In that scope, the variation of droplet size with pressure did not have a significant impact on suppression performance, and the suppression time increment due to velocity reduction was in the acceptable level. A series of tests were conducted to verify its performance. The vibration test presented that there was no nitrogen leakage and no obvious resonance happened, which meant it possessed high reliability. The fire suppression tests indicated that it can suppress different fire types of a certain scale. The simulation results showed that the spray performance is improved in the microgravity. Conclusion can be drawn that the prototype is feasible in the microgravity and it reached the requirements of the design.
Incidence and predictive factors of depression among patients with HIV infection in Guadeloupe: 1988–2009
Authors: Elenga Narcisse , Georger-Sow Marie-Thérèse , Messiaen Thierry , Lamaury Isabelle , Favre Isabelle , Nacher Mathieu , Beaucaire Gilles
Published: December 2013

Summary

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to determine the incidence and the predictive factors of depression in a cohort of 2737 HIV/AIDS-infected patients in Guadeloupe followed for a total of 8402 patient-years. The incidence rate of first observed depression was 2.2 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9–2.6). A single failure Cox proportional hazards model showed that the 1997–2000 inclusion period (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.10–2.40; p = 0.01), the 2001–2009 inclusion period (HR = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.02–2.40; p = 0.04), the more advanced CDC stage (HR = 2.30; 95% CI = 1.30–3.10; p = 0.000) and the annual frequency of visits > 10 (HR = 2.30; 95% CI = 1.70–3.30; p = 0.000) were associated with an increased risk of depression. Incidence of depression in this HIV cohort was high and the hazard function showed three peaks of depression (2, 7 and 12 years). Physicians should be vigilant to psychological distress throughout life with HIV.
Annular erythema in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: description of 43 non-Asian cases
Authors: Brito-Zerón P , Retamozo S , Akasbi M , Gandía M , Perez-De-Lis M , Soto-Cardenas M-J , Diaz-Lagares C , Kostov B , Bove A , Bosch X , Perez-Alvarez R , Siso A , Ramos-Casals M
Published: December 2013

Objective

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the prevalence and characterize the main epidemiological, clinical and immunological features of annular erythema (AE) in non-Asian patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (SS).

Methods

We carried out a retrospective study searching for AE in 377 Spanish patients with primary SS fulfilling the 2002 American-European criteria. In addition, we searched PubMed (1994–2012) using the MeSH terms “annular erythema” and “primary Sjögren’s syndrome” for additional cases. All cases with AE reported in patients with SS associated with systemic lupus erythematosus were excluded.

Results

In our Spanish cohort, we found 35 (9%) patients diagnosed with AE. All were white females, with a mean age of 47 years at diagnosis of AE. AE preceded diagnosis of SS in 27 (77%) patients. Cutaneous AE lesions involved principally the face and upper extremities. All patients reported photosensitivity, with cutaneous flares being reported during the warmest months in 93% of patients. Immunological markers consisted of anti-Ro/La antibodies in 31 (89%) patients. In the literature search, we identified eight additional non-Asian patients with primary SS diagnosed with AE. In comparison with 52 Asian patients, the 43 non-Asian patients with AE related to primary SS were more frequently women (100% vs 78%, p = 0.008), and cutaneous lesions were less frequently reported in the face (55% vs 81%, p = 0.045) and more frequently in the neck (40% vs 14%, p = 0.041). Immunologically, non-Asian patients had a lower frequency of anti-Ro antibodies and a higher frequency of negative Ro/La antibodies, although the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

AE is not an exclusive cutaneous feature of Asian patients with primary SS. In addition to the characteristic cutaneous expression, AE has a very specific clinical and immunological profile: often presenting before the fulfillment of SS criteria, overwhelmingly associated with anti-Ro antibodies but weakly associated with other immunological markers and the main systemic SS-related features.
Trends in systemic lupus erythematosus mortality in Spain from 1981 to 2010
Authors: Ruiz E , Ramalle-Gómara E , Elena Á , Quiñones C , Alonso V , Posada M ,   and on behalf of the Spain RDR Working group
Published: December 2013

Background

Incidence and mortality of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) seem to be increasing in the last few decades, in contrast to the survival rate that has improved over time. The objective of this study was to examine the trends in the SLE mortality in Spain over a 30-year period (1981–2010).

Methods

Data on SLE deaths were drawn from the National Statistics Institute of Spain. Crude and overall age-standardized SLE mortality rates were calculated and joinpoint regression models were used to describe trend changes. Mean age of deaths by SLE each year was also assessed.

Results

The overall age-standardized SLE mortality rate was 1.82 per million in 1981 and 2.24 in 2010. It was higher in women, 1.39 vs 0.43 in 1981 and 1.96 vs 0.28 in 2010. There was a statistically significant change in 1999. The overall age-standardized mortality rate increased from 1981 to 1999 and stabilized from 2000 to 2010. Only male rates decreased from 2000 to 2010. The mean age at death increased with time, from 42 years in 1981 to 61 years in 2010.

Conclusions

In conclusion, a slight decrease in SLE mortality has been observed in Spain over the last decade and future studies would be needed to explain the factors contributing to the improvement in the mortality rates.
Poet and profligate: the secrets of Aleksandr Sergeyevich Pushkin’s (1799–1837) personality and maladies
Authors: Lerner Vladimir , Witztum Eliezer
Published: December 2013

Aleksandr Sergeyevich Pushkin (1799–1837) was one of the great figures of Russian poetry and literature. There are numerous publications about his life, adventures and creative work. However, little has been written about his character, mental state and the condition of his wound during his fatal duel. Furthermore, his sexual illnesses and their nature were discussed even less. This paper attempts to lift the veil from this mystery.
Distribution of lymphoid depletion and viral antigen in alpacas experimentally infected with Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1
Authors: Steffen David J. , Topliff Christina L. , Schmitz John A. , Kammerman John R. , Henningson Jamie N. , Eskridge Kent M. , Kelling Clayton L.
Published: December 2013

It was hypothesized that acute postnatal Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 (BVDV-1) infection leads to leukopenia and lymphoid depletion of gut-associated lymphoid tissues similar to acute disease in calves. The objectives of the current study were to characterize the pathologic effects, viremia, viral shedding, and viral antigen deposition in 6–24-month-old, acutely infected alpacas following experimental infection with noncytopathic BVDV-1 subgenotype 1b (BVDV C0-6). The BVDV-1 isolate was obtained from a cria with naturally occurring persistent infection. Lymphocytopenia occurred 3–7 days postinfection, with a 50% reduction in peripheral lymphocytes in infected alpacas. Depletion of B-cell populations in gut-associated lymphoid tissues was evident microscopically. Populations of T cells in parafollicular zones and in nodular aggregates along the superficial submucosa remained intact. The BVDV antigen was deposited most consistently in submucosal gastrointestinal aggregated lymphoid tissues of ileum, proximal colon, and stomach compartment three. Viral antigen was more variably evident in other lymphoid tissues. Antigen distribution correlated well with histologic lesions in gastrointestinal aggregated lymphoid tissues, confirming the role of virus in lymphoid depletion. Nasal shedding was detected in all challenged alpacas on day 6 and in 4 out of 12 challenged alpacas on day 9. Viremia was present as early as day 3, and present in all challenged alpacas on days 5, 6, 7, and 9 postchallenge. Lymphocytopenia and depletion of gastrointestinal aggregated lymphoid tissues associated with acute BVDV-1 infection likely results in immune compromise and is expected to exacerbate concurrent infections even though uncomplicated BVDV-1 infection was clinically unapparent.
Growing Up With Cancer
Authors: Lewis Peter , Jordens Christopher F. C. , Mooney-Somers Julie , Smith Kris , Kerridge Ian
Published: December 2013

Adolescence and young adulthood are transitional periods of rapid and dramatic personal change. Few events can cause as unpredictable and challenging alterations to this process as the onset of a serious illness, such as cancer. Although we know much about the physical and psychological consequences of having cancer at this time, we know little about the effect of cancer on young people’s relationships. We conducted interviews with 15 women and 12 men aged between 16 and 29 years, who had survived cancer. Our findings demonstrate that the experience of cancer and how it affects relationships is complex. It arrests young people’s development by increasing their dependence on parents, giving them life experiences unavailable to peers, and complicating the process of establishing new relationships. However, it also accelerates development by facilitating closer and more mature relationships with parents and giving young people wisdom and insight not shared by peers. Cancer profoundly shapes how young people conduct their relationships. These changes require ongoing accommodation by young people with cancer, their parents, peers, and new acquaintances.