bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep and almost unbearable suffering: consequences of childhood sexual abuse for men’s health and well‐being
Authors: Sigurdardottir Sigrun , Halldorsdottir Sigridur , Bender Sóley S.
Published: April 2012

Previous studies indicate that childhood sexual abuse can have extensive and serious consequences. The aim of this research was to do a qualitative study of the consequences of childhood sexual abuse for Icelandic men’s health and well‐being. Phenomenology was the methodological approach of the study. Totally 14 interviews were conducted, two per individual, and analysed based on the Vancouver School of Phenomenology. The main results of the study showed that the men describe deep and almost unbearable suffering, affecting their entire life, of which there is no alleviation in sight. The men have lived in repressed silence most of their lives and have come close to taking their own lives. What stopped them from committing suicide was revealing to others what happened to them which set them free in a way. The men experienced fear‐ or rage‐based shock at the time of the trauma and most of them endured the attack by dissociation, disconnecting psyche and body and have difficulties reconnecting. They had extremely difficult childhoods, living with indisposition, bullying, learning difficulties and behavioural problems. Some have, from a young age, numbed themselves with alcohol and elicit drugs. They have suffered psychologically and physically and have had relational and sexual intimacy problems. The consequences of the abuse surfaced either immediately after the shock or many years later and developed into complex post‐traumatic stress disorder. Because of perceived societal prejudice, it was hard for the men to seek help. This shows the great need for professionals to be alert to the possible consequences of childhood sexual abuse in their practice to reverse the damaging consequences on their health and well‐being. We conclude that living in repressed silence after a trauma, like childhood sexual abuse, can be dangerous for the health, well‐being and indeed the very life of the survivor.
Organic Sulfur Metabolisms in Hydrothermal Environments
Authors: ROGERS KARYN L. , SCHULTE MITCHELL D.
Published: April 2012

Sulfur is central to the metabolisms of many organisms that inhabit extreme environments. While biotic and abiotic cycling of organic sulfur compounds has been well documented in low‐temperature anaerobic environments, cycling of organic sulfur in hydrothermal environments has received less attention. Recently published thermodynamic data have been used to estimate aqueous alkyl thiol and sulfide activities in deep‐sea hydrothermal systems. Here we use geochemical mixing models to predict fluid compositions that result from mixing end‐member hydrothermal fluid from the East Pacific Rise with bottom seawater. These fluid compositions are combined with estimates of methanethiol and dimethylsulfide activities to evaluate energy yields for potential organic sulfur‐based metabolisms under hydrothermal conditions. Aerobic respiration has the highest energy yields (over −240 kJ/mol e−) at lower temperature; however, oxygen is unlikely to persist at high temperatures, restricting aerobic respiration to mesophilic communities. Nitrite reduction to N2 has the highest energy yields at higher temperatures (greater than ∼40 °C). Nitrate and nitrite reduction to ammonium also yield significant energy (up to −70 kJ/mol e−). Much lower, but still feasible energy yields are calculated for sulfate reduction, disproportionation, and reduction with H2. Organic compound family and the activity of methanethiol and dimethylsulfide were less important than metabolic strategy in determining overall energy yields. All metabolic strategies considered were exergonic within some portion of the mixing regime suggesting that organic sulfur‐based metabolisms may be prevalent within deep‐sea hydrothermal vent microbial communities.
PLASTER AND MORTAR RADIOCARBON DATING OF NABATEAN AND ISLAMIC STRUCTURES, SOUTH JORDAN*
Authors: AL‐BASHAIREH K.
Published: April 2012

The study aims to use lime mortars and plasters to radiocarbon date Nabatean and Islamic structures from Petra and Udruh, south Jordan. Fifteen samples from seven structures were characterized by thin‐section, scanning electron and cathodoluminescence microscopy. The lime binders of all the samples and the organic inclusions from nine samples were AMS radiocarbon dated. The dates and the historical data of the samples were compared with each other. The results showed an agreement between the radiocarbon dates of the lime binders and the organic inclusions and the historical data for most of the samples. The radiocarbon dates of the lime binders supported by the radiocarbon dates of the organic inclusions and the archaeological data were helpful in reconstructing a rather precise chronology of the studied structures.
Reporting of Quality Indicators and Improvement in Hospital Performance: The P.Re.Val.E. Regional Outcome Evaluation Program
Authors: Renzi Cristina , Sorge Chiara , Fusco Danilo , Agabiti Nera , Davoli Marina , Perucci Carlo A.
Published: April 2012

Objective

To evaluate whether reporting of hospital performance was associated with a change in quality indicators in Italian hospitals.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Nationwide Hospital Information System for 2006–2009.

Study Design

We performed a pre‐post evaluation in Lazio (before and after disclosure of the Regional Outcome Evaluation Program P.Re.Val.E.) and a comparative evaluation versus Italian regions without comparable programs. We analyzed risk‐adjusted proportions of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), hip fractures operated on within 48 hours, and cesarean deliveries.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Using standardized ICD‐9‐CM coding algorithms, we selected 381,053 acute myocardial infarction patients, 250,712 hip fractures, and 1,736,970 women who had given birth.

Principal Findings

In Lazio PCI within 48 hours changed from 22.49 to 29.43 percent following reporting of the P.Re.Val.E results (relative increase, 31 percent; p < .001). In the other regions this proportion increased from 22.48 to 27.09 percent during the same time period (relative increase, 21 percent; p < .001). Hip fractures operated on within 48 hours increased from 11.73 to 15.78 percent (relative increase, 34 percent; p < .001) in Lazio, and not in other regions (29.36 to 28.57 percent). Cesarean deliveries did not decrease in Lazio (34.57–35.30 percent), and only slightly decreased in the other regions (30.49–28.11 percent).

Conclusions

Reporting of performance data may have a positive but limited impact on quality improvement. The evaluation of quality indicators remains paramount for public accountability.
Transport and pharmacodynamics of albitiazolium, an antimalarial drug candidate
Authors: Wein S , Maynadier M , Bordat Y , Perez J , Maheshwari S , Bette‐Bobillo P , Tran Van Ba C , Penarete‐Vargas D , Fraisse L , Cerdan R , Vial H
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Choline analogues, a new type of antimalarials, exert potent in vitro and in vivo antimalarial activity. This has given rise to albitiazolium, which is currently in phase II clinical trials to cure severe malaria. Here we dissected its mechanism of action step by step from choline entry into the infected erythrocyte to its effect on phosphatidylcholine (PC) biosynthesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We biochemically unravelled the transport and enzymatic steps that mediate de novo synthesis of PC and elucidated how albitiazolium enters the intracellular parasites and affects the PC biosynthesis.

KEY RESULTS Choline entry into Plasmodium falciparum‐infected erythrocytes is achieved both by the remnant erythrocyte choline carrier and by parasite‐induced new permeability pathways (NPP), while parasite entry involves a poly‐specific cation transporter. Albitiazolium specifically prevented choline incorporation into its end‐product PC, and its antimalarial activity was strongly antagonized by choline. Albitiazolium entered the infected erythrocyte mainly via a furosemide‐sensitive NPP and was transported into the parasite by a poly‐specific cation carrier. Albitiazolium competitively inhibited choline entry via the parasite‐derived cation transporter and also, at a much higher concentration, affected each of the three enzymes conducting de novo synthesis of PC.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Inhibition of choline entry into the parasite appears to be the primary mechanism by which albitiazolium exerts its potent antimalarial effect. However, the pharmacological response to albitiazolium involves molecular interactions with different steps of the de novo PC biosynthesis pathway, which would help to delay the development of resistance to this drug.
Impact of an 18‐Month, NHS‐Based, Treatment Exposure for Heroin Dependence: Results from the London Area Treat 2000 Study
Authors: Schifano Fabrizio , Martinotti Giovanni , Cunniff Anna , Reissner Volker , Scherbaum Norbert , Ghodse Hamid
Published: April 2012

We set out to examine the impact of treatment for heroin dependence on drug use, injecting behavior, health problems, criminality, and physical and mental health over 18 months among heroin‐dependent Londoners. A total of 100 heroin users were recruited for this longitudinal prospective cohort study with repeated measures (T0 as baseline, T1 after 9 months, and T2 after 18 months). The psychiatric evaluation and assessment of drug abuse levels were determined by the CIDI and the EuropASI. Additional evaluations included the WHO‐DAS II for disability assessment and the UCLA‐SSI for social support. The number of days of heroin use in the 30 days previous to each single assessment significantly reduced over time (p < .001). Similar reduction levels were observed for cocaine (p < .05), benzodiazepines (p < .001), and polydrug abuse (p < .001), but not for cannabis and alcohol. The number of injecting occasions reduced in parallel, with increase in days in work and reduction of money spent for drug acquisition activities and money obtained from criminal/illegal activities. The number of subjects experiencing suicidal ideation reduced over time (p < .05). In line with previous suggestions, significant reductions in drug use, criminality, psychopathology, and injecting behavior following treatment exposure for heroin dependence were observed. It is, however, of concern that alcohol and cannabis misuse levels remained unchanged. (Am J Addict 2012;21:268–273)
An Examination of Pathways from Childhood Maltreatment to Adolescent Binge Drinking
Authors: Shin Sunny Hyucksun , Hong Hyokyoung Grace , Wills Thomas A.
Published: April 2012

Considerable clinical and empirical evidence has accumulated over the past decades indicating that there is a strong association between childhood maltreatment and heavy episodic drinking in adolescence, but there is a paucity of empirically based knowledge about the processes linking the association. The aim of this paper is to examine mechanisms that might account for the association between childhood maltreatment and heavy episodic drinking in adolescence. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents (ages ranging 12–21; N = 6,337), this study examined the role of individual self‐regulatory processes in the associations, controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, peer substance use, parental alcoholism, and parent–child conflict. Factor analyses were used to test the measurement structure of self‐regulatory processes. Findings confirmed the association between childhood maltreatment and heavy episodic drinking in adolescence. Structural modeling analyses indicated indirect effects for childhood maltreatment primarily through poor self‐regulatory processes and peer substance use. Implications for future research are discussed. (Am J Addict 2012;21:202–209)
Less Common Clinical Manifestations of Atopic Dermatitis: Prevalence by Age
Authors: Julián‐Gónzalez Rolando Elias , Orozco‐Covarrubias Luz , Durán‐McKinster Carola , Palacios‐Lopez Carolina , Ruiz‐Maldonado Ramon , Sáez‐de‐Ocariz Marimar
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The common manifestations of atopic dermatitis (AD) appear sequentially with involvement of the cheeks in infancy, flexural extremities in childhood, and hands in adulthood. Although less common clinical manifestations are well described, they have not been the subject of epidemiologic studies to describe their prevalence in specific age groups. This observational, cross‐sectional, comparative study included 131 children younger than 18 of both sexes with AD who attended the clinics of the Dermatology Department of the National Institute of Pediatrics in Mexico City. Patients were examined to determine the presence of infrequent clinical manifestations of AD during infancy, preschool and school age, and adolescence and stratified according to sex, age, and number of clinical signs. A chi‐square test was used to detect differences according to age and sex. Logistic regression analysis was also performed. The main findings according to age were genital dermatitis and papular‐lichenoid dermatitis variant in infants; atopic feet, prurigo‐like, nummular pattern, and erythroderma in preschool and school‐aged children; and eyelid eczema and nipple dermatitis in adolescents. The risk of development of nipple dermatitis and eyelid eczema increased with age, and the development of genital dermatitis decreased with age. The knowledge of the prevalence of less common clinical manifestations of AD according to age in different populations might be helpful in diagnosing incipient cases of AD.
Role of comorbidities in outcome prediction after status epilepticus
Authors: Alvarez Vincent , Januel Jean‐Marie , Burnand Bernard , Rossetti Andrea O.
Published: April 2012

Status epilepticus (SE) is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. A reliable prognosis may help better manage medical resources and treatment strategies. We examined the role of preexisting comorbidities on the outcome of patients with SE, an aspect that has received little attention to date. We prospectively studied incident SE episodes in 280 adults occurring over 55 months in our tertiary care hospital, excluding patients with postanoxic encephalopathy. Different models predicting mortality and return to clinical baseline at hospital discharge were compared, which included demographics, SE etiology, a validated clinical Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS), and comorbidities (assessed with the Charlson Comorbidity Index) as independent variables. The overall short‐term mortality was 14%, and only half of patients returned to their clinical baseline. On bivariate analyses, age, STESS, potentially fatal etiologies, and number of preexisting comorbidities were all significant predictors of both mortality and return to clinical baseline. As compared with the simplest predictive model (including demographics and deadly etiology), adding SE severity and comorbidities resulted in an improved predictive performance (C statistics 0.84 vs. 0.77 for mortality, and 0.86 vs. 0.82. for return to clinical baseline); comorbidities, however, were not independently related to outcome. Considering comorbidities and clinical presentation, in addition to age and etiology, slightly improves the prediction of SE outcome with respect to both survival and functional status. This analysis also emphasizes the robust predictive role of etiology and age.
Predicting hand function after hemispherotomy: TMS versus fMRI in hemispheric polymicrogyria
Authors: Zsoter Andrea , Pieper Tom , Kudernatsch Manfred , Staudt Martin
Published: April 2012

Patients with hemispheric malformations of cortical development (such as polymicrogyria) often develop medically intractable epilepsies for which hemispherotomy can be an excellent treatment option. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are noninvasive methods used to evaluate the sensorimotor system in adults and children before surgery. Preoperative results of both methods and their predictive values regarding hand function after hemispherotomy are described in four boys with hemispheric polymicrogyria, pharmacoresistent epilepsy, and hemiparesis with preserved grasp function of the paretic hand. TMS showing ipsilateral projections from the contralesional hemisphere but no evidence of crossed corticospinal projections from the lesioned hemisphere correctly predicted preserved postoperative grasp function in all four patients. In contrast, the interpretation of sensorimotor fMRI in patients with congenital hemiparesis is more difficult, as ipsilesional activation can occur as it was the case in three of four patients in the current study. This activation might represent contralaterally preserved primary somatosensory (S1) and not primary motor (M1) representation and is apparently not necessary for the paretic hand to still perform grasp movements.
Modulation of epileptiform EEG discharges in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: An investigation of reflex epileptic traits
Authors: Beniczky Sándor , Guaranha Mirian Salvadori Bittar , Conradsen Isa , Singh Mamta Bhushan , Rutar Veronika , Lorber Bogdan , Braga Patricia , Fressola Alicia Bogacz , Inoue Yushi , Yacubian Elza Márcia Targas , Wolf Peter
Published: April 2012

Purpose:  Previous studies have suggested that cognitive tasks modulate (provoke or inhibit) the epileptiform electroencephalography (EEG) discharges (EDs) in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). Their inhibitory effect was found to be especially frequent (64–90%). These studies arbitrarily defined modulation as a >100% increase or >50% decrease of the EDs compared with baseline, which may not sufficiently distinguish from spontaneous fluctuations. The aim of our study was to assess the modulation of EDs and the precipitation of myoclonic seizures by cognitive tasks and by conventional provocation methods, taking into account also the spontaneous fluctuation of EDs.

Method:  Sixty patients with JME underwent video‐EEG recordings including 50‐min baseline, sleep, hyperventilation, intermittent photic stimulation (IPS), and cognitive tasks. To account for spontaneous fluctuations of the EDs we divided the baseline period into 5‐min epochs and calculated the 95% confidence interval for the baseline EDs in each patient. Modulation was assumed when the number of EDs during any 5‐min test period was outside the 95% confidence interval.

Key Findings:  Using the arbitrary method, our results were similar to previous publications: Cognitive tasks seemed to inhibit the EDs in 94% of the patients, and to provoke them in 22%. However, when the spontaneous fluctuations were accounted for, inhibition was found in only 29% of the patients and provocation in 18%. A nonspecific effect of any cognitive task seemed to account for the observed significant inhibition in two‐thirds of the cases, but was observed in only one of the patients with significant provocation. Photoparoxysmal response was observed in 23% of the patients. When accounting for the spontaneous occurrence of EDs, IPS had provocative effect in 10% of the patients. Hyperventilation and sleep had provocative effect on EDs to an extent similar to the cognitive tasks (hyperventilation: 22%; sleep: 18%). The conventional provocation methods tended to be more efficient in patients who were not seizure free. Myoclonia were recorded most often during the cognitive tasks (10 patients).

Significance:  Spontaneous fluctuations of EDs account for most of the previously described inhibitory effect of the cognitive tasks. The provocative effect of the cognitive tasks is task‐specific, whereas the inhibitory effect seems to be related to cognitive activation in general.
TAXONOMIC REVISION OF THE DINOFLAGELLATE AMPHIDOMA CAUDATA: TRANSFER TO THE GENUS AZADINIUM (DINOPHYCEAE) AND PROPOSAL OF TWO VARIETIES, BASED ON MORPHOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSES1
Authors: Nézan Elisabeth , Tillmann Urban , Bilien Gwenae¨ l , Boulben Sylviane , Chèze Karine , Zentz Frédéric , Salas Rafael , Chomérat Nicolas
Published: April 2012

The systematic position of Amphidoma caudata Halldal within the genus Amphidoma has remained uncertain as a result of its plate formula and the absence of molecular phylogenetic data. Also, this thecate dinoflagellate taxon has been used to designate two distinct morphotypes. The present study aims to clarify the generic affiliation of Amphidoma caudata and the taxonomic value of two different morphotypes M1 and M2. The new examination of the plate formula using SEM showed that it was the same for both morphotypes and that it corresponded to the tabulation of the recent erected genus Azadinium Elbrächter et Tillmann. Morphometric analysis, using cell size, length of apical projection in conjunction with the cell length, and the ratio of horn and spine showed that M1 and M2 formed two distinct groups. These results were supported by a molecular approach, revealing notable differences in the sequences of LSU rDNA and ITS region between these two morphotypes. Phylogenetic analyses inferred either from LSU and combined SSU, ITS region and COI data positioned M1 and M2 in a sister cluster of Azadinium species while Amphidoma languida Tillmann, Salas et Elbrächter, the only species of Amphidoma for which sequence data were available, was situated in a basal position of the Azadinium clade. Thus, we propose the transfer of Amphidoma caudata to the genus Azadinium and, consequently, the rehabilitation of the original tabulation of the genus Amphidoma Stein. To discriminate the two morphotypes, we propose a rank of variety with the following designations: Azadinium caudatum var. caudatum and Azadinium caudatum var. margalefii.
Finding Life Cycle Assessment Research Direction with the Aid of Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zamagni Alessandra , Masoni Paolo , Buttol Patrizia , Raggi Andrea , Buonamici Roberto
Published: April 2012

Rapid growth in life cycle assessment (LCA) methodological developments has generated a large body of work that may appear to lack direction. In this article we developed and applied a structured approach, inspired by the meta‐analysis concept, to examine literature and identify research thrusts on how to further develop LCA. The procedure consists of four steps: (1) definition of the research question; (2) carrying out a literature review concerning more than 280 articles, selected from about 2,000 articles according to predefined criteria, which resulted in the identification of some 60 main methodological topics; (3) research gap analysis, in which the methodological topics identified in the previous step were compared with the research priorities identified through a users’ needs survey; and (4) interpretation of results, in which the results of both the previous steps were evaluated and organized into coherent research thrusts.

Overall the analysis delivered two main research thrusts: one devoted to increase the practicability of LCA, the other to increase model fidelity. The former is aimed at making knowledge available in an easily usable way, while the latter focuses on better describing the complexity of the systems analyzed and those interrelations that are really meaningful. Specific research topics were identified for each thrust, which suggests that sophistication and practicability can and should coexist in the same method.
Pandemic 2009 A(H1N1) Infection Requiring Hospitalization of Elderly Spanish Adults
Authors: Paño‐Pardo José Ramón , Viasus Diego , Pachón Jerónimo , Campins Antoni , López‐Medrano Francisco , Villoslada Aroa , Gutiérrez‐Cuadra Manuel , Pumarola Tomás , del Toro María Dolores , Oteo José A. , Martínez‐Montauti Joaquin , Gutiérrez‐Aroca Juan , Segura Ferrán , Carratalà Jordi ,   for the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Study Group of the Spanish Network for Research in Infectious Diseases
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To describe the clinical presentation and prognosis of elderly adults hospitalized with pandemic 2009 A(H1N1) influenza infection and to compare these data with those of younger patients.

Design

Prospective, observational, multicenter study.

Setting

Thirteen hospitals in Spain.

Participants

Adults admitted to the hospital with confirmed pandemic 2009 A(H1N1) influenza infection.

Measurements

Demographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological, and outcome variables.

Results

Between June 12 and November 10, 2009, 585 adults with confirmed 2009 A(H1N1) influenza were hospitalized, of whom 50 (8.5%) were aged 65 and older (median age 72, range 65–87). Older adults (≥65) were more likely to have associated comorbidities (88.0% vs 51.2%; P < .001), primarily chronic pulmonary diseases (46.0% vs 27.3%; P < .001). Lower respiratory tract symptoms and signs such as dyspnea (60.0% vs 45.6%) and wheezing (46.0% vs 27.8%; P = .007) were also more common in these elderly adults, although pulmonary infiltrates were present in just 14 (28.0%) of the older adults, compared with 221 (41.3%) of the younger adults (P = .06). Multilobar involvement was less frequent in elderly adults with pulmonary infiltrates than younger adults with pulmonary infiltrates (21.4% vs 60.0%; P = .05). Rhinorrhea (4.0% vs 21.9%; P = .003), myalgias (42.0% vs 59.1%; P = .01), and sore throat (14.0% vs 29.2%; P = .02) were more frequent in younger adults. Early antiviral therapy (<48 hours) was similar in the two groups (34.0% vs 37.9%; P = .58). Two older adults (4.0%) died during hospitalization, compared with 11 (2.1%) younger adults (P = .30).

Conclusion

Elderly adults with 2009 A(H1N1) influenza had fewer viral‐like upper respiratory symptoms than did younger adults. Pneumonia was more frequent in younger adults. No significant differences were observed in hospital mortality.
Effects of Multimodal Nondrug Therapy on Dementia Symptoms and Need for Care in Nursing Home Residents with Degenerative Dementia: A Randomized‐Controlled Study with 6‐Month Follow‐Up
Authors: Luttenberger Katharina , Donath Carolin , Uter Wolfgang , Graessel Elmar
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To determine the efficacy of multimodal, nondrug therapy on symptoms of dementia and need for care in institutionalized individuals with degenerative dementia.

Design

Randomized, controlled, longitudinal trial. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression.

Setting

Five German nursing homes.

Participants

One hundred thirty‐nine nursing home residents with primary degenerative dementia (Mini‐Mental State Examination score < 24).

Intervention

The 6‐month intervention comprised three components: motor stimulation, activities of daily living, and cognitive stimulation (MAKS). Groups of 10 patients led by two therapists participated in the standardized intervention for 2 hours, 6 days a week. The intervention was described in detail in an intervention manual. Adherence to the manual was high. Controls received treatment as usual.

Measurements

Overall geriatric symptoms were recorded using the Nurses' Observation Scale for Geriatric Patients, functional independence using the Barthel Index, and care time using the Resource Utilization in Dementia—Formal Care.

Results

Of 646 individuals screened, 146 were eligible, and 130 were included in the intention‐to‐treat analysis. At 6 months, results of the per‐protocol analysis (n = 119) showed improvement in overall dementia symptoms in the MAKS group and no change in the control group (adjusted mean difference (AMD) = −6.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −10.3 to −3.3; P < .001, Cohen d = 0.66). This effect was greatest on the social behavior (AMD = −1.9, 95% CI = −2.9 to −0.8; P < .001; Cohen d = 0.54) and instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) (AMD = −1.4, 95% CI = −2.5 to −0.30; P = .01; Cohen d = 0.43) subscales. No effect was seen on functional independence or total care time.

Conclusion

This 6‐month nondrug multimodal intervention improved dementia symptoms in nursing home residents, especially in social behavior and IADL capabilities.

Registration

www.isrctn.com Identifier: ISRCTN87391496.
Physiological Reactivity to Infant Crying and Observed Maternal Sensitivity
Authors: Joosen Katharina J. , Mesman Judi , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J. , Pieper Suzanne , Zeskind Philip S. , van IJzendoorn Marinus H.
Published: April 2012

Relations between maternal sensitivity and physiological reactivity to infant crying were examined using measures of heart rate (HR) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) in 49 mothers of second‐born infants. Using the Ainsworth Sensitivity Scale, an independent assessment of maternal sensitivity was made during maternal free play and bathing of their infants. Physiological reactivity was measured while mothers listened to three blocks of infant cry sounds in a standard cry paradigm. Mothers scoring high on sensitivity were compared to less sensitive mothers on both their physiological reactivity to the presented crying sounds and their physiological mean‐level differences. Significant interaction effects were found for both HR and RSA. Highly sensitive mothers showed a larger increase in HR and stronger RSA withdrawal in response to the first block of cry sounds compared to less sensitive mothers. Main effects showed that highly sensitive mothers had lower mean overall HR, and higher mean RSA levels across all three blocks of crying sounds compared to less sensitive mothers. RSA withdrawal and accompanying HR increases are discussed from a polyvagal perspective as indicative of a better capability in responding to infant signals of negative affect.
In Vitro Comparison of Fracture Strength of Experimental Hollow and Solid Design Zirconia Dowels
Authors: Özkurt Zeynep , Baybora Kayahan Mehmet , Kazazoğlu Ender
Published: April 2012

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture strength of experimental hollow and solid design zirconia dowels.

Materials and Methods: Three types of dowels (fiber‐reinforced composite [FRC], hollow design, and solid design zirconia dowels) were tested in the study (n = 10). A three‐point bending method was conducted, and a load was applied until fracture. The values were recorded as Newtons (N) and then converted to megapascals (MPa) according to the diameter of the dowels. Statistical analyses were performed using one‐way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests. The significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean fracture strength of the hollow design zirconia dowels was significantly higher (960.72 MPa) than solid zirconia dowels (741.78 MPa) and FRC dowels (687.64 MPa) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: The hollow design zirconia dowel seems to have sufficient fracture strength for anterior restorations. This design may be beneficial to access the apical region when retreatment is necessary, without any dowel‐removing procedure.
Arthroscopic Approach and Intraarticular Anatomy of the Stifle inSouthAmerican Camelids
Authors: Pentecost Rebecca L. , Niehaus Andrew J. , Santschi Elizabeth
Published: April 2012

Objective

To describe a cranial arthroscopic approach to the stifle ofSouthAmerican camelids and to report our clinical experience with camelid stifle arthroscopy.

Study Design

Experimental study and retrospective case series.

Animals

(1) Cadaveric alpaca hindlimbs (n = 18; 9 alpacas); (2) 1 alpaca and 1 llama

Methods

Polymethylmethacrylate joint casts (n = 2) were made to define stifle joint dimensions. Cadaveric stifle joints (n = 16) were evaluated arthroscopically to determine arthroscopic portal locations, describe the intraarticular anatomy, and report potential complications. An alpaca and a llama with stifle joint disease had diagnostic arthroscopy.

Results

Successful entry into the stifle joint was achieved in 16 cadaver limbs. Observed structures were: the suprapatellar pouch, articular surface of the patella, femoral trochlear ridges and groove, cranial aspect of the femoral condyles (n = 16); distal aspect of the cranial and proximal aspect of the caudal cruciate ligaments (14); and cranial aspects of the medial and lateral menisci (11), and cranial meniscotibial and intermeniscal ligaments (8). Stifle arthroscopy allowed for joint evaluation and removal of osteochondral fragments in 1 alpaca and 1 llama with naturally occurring stifle disease. Complications of cadaver or live procedures included minor cartilage scoring (3 stifles) and subcutaneous periarticular fluid accumulation (8 stifles).

Conclusions

Arthroscopy provides a safe approach for diagnosis and treatment of stifle lesions inSouthAmerican camelids.
Creating the Global Graduate: A Cross‐Cultural Videoconferencing Case Study
Authors: Ferry Diane L. , Kydd Christine T. , Boyles Corinne
Published: April 2012

Business people in multinational environments must deal with a variety of situational barriers and cultural differences, such as time zones, languages, and common practice differences. Learning to accommodate these barriers and differences effectively often takes years of practice. Students who experience some of these barriers and become aware of some of the cultural differences while still in school have the advantage of beginning their practice early. Classroom to classroom videoconferencing (VC) provides an excellent discovery, or active, learning opportunity for business students to interact with, and learn more about, other's cultural similarities and differences. This article presents a case study that describes the videoconferencing interactions experienced by Japanese and U.S. undergraduate business students conducted in three successive years with three different sets of students on each side. In each year, students report learning a great deal about each other's cultures through the discovery learning process; at the same time, faculty learned that some types of discussion vehicles work better than others. Implications for how best to provide a cross‐cultural experience via videoconferencing for students who will soon be in the international workforce are discussed.
Applying the International Medical Graduate Program Model to Alleviate the Supply Shortage of Accounting Doctoral Faculty*
Authors: HassabElnaby Hassan R. , Dobrzykowski David D. , Tran Oanh Thikie
Published: April 2012

Accounting has been faced with a severe shortage in the supply of qualified doctoral faculty. Drawing upon the international mobility of foreign scholars and the spirit of the international medical graduate program, this article suggests a model to fill the demand in accounting doctoral faculty. The underlying assumption of the suggested model is that there is enough qualified international accounting doctoral scholars who are willing to work in the United States because of natural and artificial benefits, such as the existence of national innovation, knowledge‐intensive clusters system, favorable working conditions, and career and earning prospects. A 10‐week International Accounting Post‐Doctoral Program (IAPDP) is designed to prepare academically competent international accounting faculty to be qualified to work in the United States at AACSB International‐accredited institutions. A survey was employed to examine the viability of the proposed model. Our results indicate that qualified international accounting doctoral scholars are interested in the suggested model and the nondoctoral U.S. accounting programs will represent the major job market for these IAPDP graduates. This article should be of interest to accounting educators, business schools, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International, and the American Accounting Association (AAA).
Electrical Isolation of Both Left Pulmonary Veins by a Single Left Atrial Endocardial Radiofrequency Energy Application: Ablation of Marshall Bundle Bypass
Authors: VARMA NIRAJ , ABI‐SALEH BERNARD
Published: April 2012

The muscular sleeve contained within the ligament of Marshall (Marshall Bundle, MB) has been implicated in triggering and/or maintaining atrial fibrillation. Its connections may form a conduit between the left atrium (LA) and the left pulmonary veins (PVs) and challenge PV isolation attempts. In this case, radiofrequency (RF) ablation at antra of both left PVs failed to affect venous electrical activity. However, isolation of both PVs occurred simultaneously with a single, short (14 seconds) RF energy application at the mitral isthmus. This was delivered at a site recording a complex continuous electrogram (duration 100 ms), interpreted as the site of a single connection between LA and MB. (PACE 2012; 35:e325–e329)
Model Selection for Generalized Estimating Equations Accommodating Dropout Missingness
Authors: Shen Chung‐Wei , Chen Yi‐Hau
Published: April 2012

Summary The generalized estimating equation (GEE) has been a popular tool for marginal regression analysis with longitudinal data, and its extension, the weighted GEE approach, can further accommodate data that are missing at random (MAR). Model selection methodologies for GEE, however, have not been systematically developed to allow for missing data. We propose the missing longitudinal information criterion (MLIC) for selection of the mean model, and the MLIC for correlation (MLICC) for selection of the correlation structure in GEE when the outcome data are subject to dropout/monotone missingness and are MAR. Our simulation results reveal that the MLIC and MLICC are effective for variable selection in the mean model and selecting the correlation structure, respectively. We also demonstrate the remarkable drawbacks of naively treating incomplete data as if they were complete and applying the existing GEE model selection method. The utility of proposed method is further illustrated by two real applications involving missing longitudinal outcome data.
Spatial Heterogeneity, Social Capital, and Rural Larceny and Burglary
Authors: Deller Steven , Deller Melissa
Published: April 2012

Abstract

We explore the role of social capital in explaining patterns of rural larceny and burglary crime rates. We find consistent evidence that higher levels of social capital tend to be associated with lower levels of rural property crime rates. We also find that there is significant spatial heterogeneity in the underlying data‐generating process. This spatial heterogeneity suggests that relying on global estimates from classical statistical methods, such as least squares, may lead to erroneous policy recommendations at the local level. We suggest that some of the inconsistencies in the ecological empirical criminology literature might be explained by spatial heterogeneity.
Hepatic miR‐29ab1 expression modulates chronic hepatic injury
Authors: Kogure Takayuki , Costinean Stefan , Yan Irene , Braconi Chiara , Croce Carlo , Patel Tushar
Published: April 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, regulatory non‐coding RNAs that have potent effects on gene expression. Several miRNA are deregulated in cellular processes involved in human liver diseases and regulation of cellular processes. Recent studies have identified the involvement of miR‐29 in hepatic fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Although several targets of miR‐29 have been identified, there is limited information regarding the cell‐type specific roles of miR‐29 in the liver, and we sought to evaluate the role of this miRNA in hepatic pathobiology. We report the generation of a tissue–specific knockout mouse to evaluate the role of miR‐29 in hepatic fibrosis and carcinogenesis in response to injury. We hypothesized that miR‐29 contributes to the hepatocyte driven response to chronic cellular injury that results in fibrosis. In support of this hypothesis, fibrosis and mortality were enhanced in miR29 knockout mice in response to carbon tetrachloride. Genome‐wide gene expression analysis identified an over‐representation of genes associated with fibrosis. The oncofetal RNA H19 was modulated in a miR‐29 dependent manner following exposure to carbon tetrachloride in vivo. The impact of a hepatocyte specific miR‐29 knockout on survival following chronic hepatic injury in vivo implicates this miRNA as a potential target for intervention. These results provide evidence of the involvement of miR‐29 in chronic hepatic injury, and suggest a role for deregulated hepatocyte expression of miR‐29 in the response to hepatic injury, fibrosis and carcinogenesis.
Helicobacter pylori clarithromycin resistance detected by Etest and TaqMan real‐time polymerase chain reaction: a comparative study
Authors: Monno Rosa , Giorgio Floriana , Carmine Panella , Soleo Leonardo , Cinquepalmi Vittoria , Ierardi Enzo
Published: April 2012

The aim of the work was to compare H. pylori clarithromycin‐resistance according two methods. Etest was performed on H. pylori isolated from gastric biopsy samples. TaqMan Real‐Time‐PCR (RT‐PCR) was performed on paraffin‐embedded gastric biopsy samples of the same patients. Forty‐seven out of 88 strains were resistant to clarithromycin by Etest, whereas RT‐PCR detected this resistance on paraffin‐embedded specimens of 50 patients. RT‐PCR performed on paraffin‐embedded biopsy specimens of 47 patients infected with H. pylori resistant to clarithromycin as detected by Etest, revealed the presence of a resistant strain only in 40 samples. RT‐PCR performed on samples of 41 patients harbouring clarithromycin‐susceptible H. pylori strains showed the presence of 31 susceptible and 10 resistant strains. RT‐PCR detected 18 cases with heteroresistant status. The difference between the two tests in detecting clarithromycin‐resistance was not statistically significant even if RT‐PCR detected more resistant cases. The genotyping resistance on paraffin‐embedded gastric biopsy specimens may be used to establish resistance to clarithromycin before the treatment when culture and susceptibility testing are not available. In case of failure of an empirical clarithromycin‐based triple antimicrobial treatment, RT‐PCR performed on paraffin‐embedded biopsy sample will establish the primary resistance to clarithromycin. In addition, this test can be useful for epidemiological investigation as well as for monitoring the evolution of clarithromycin resistance along the time.
The periodontium of periodontitis patients contains citrullinated proteins which may play a role in ACPA (anti‐citrullinated protein antibody) formation
Authors: Nesse Willem , Westra Johanna , van der Wal Jacqueline E. , Abbas Frank , Nicholas Anthony P. , Vissink Arjan , Brouwer Elisabeth
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Aim

To determine the presence and location (stroma versus epithelium) of citrullinated proteins in periodontitis tissue as compared to non‐periodontitis tissue and synovial tissue of RA patients.

Materials & Methods

Periodontitis, healthy periodontal and RA‐affected synovial tissue samples were collected in addition to buccal swabs. These samples were stained for the presence of citrullinated proteins using polyclonal (Ab5612) and monoclonal (F95) antibodies. Furthermore, Western blotting with F95 was performed on lysates prepared from periodontal and synovial tissues.

Results

In periodontitis stroma, increased citrullinated protein presence (80%) was observed compared with control stroma (33%), the latter was associated with inflammation of non‐periodontitis origin. Periodontal epithelium always stained positive for Ab5612. Noteworthy, only periodontitis‐affected epithelium stained positive for F95. All buccal mucosal swabs and 3 of 4 synovial tissue samples stained positive for both Ab5612 and F95. Western blotting with F95 showed presence of similar citrullinated proteins in both periodontitis and RA‐affected synovial tissue.

Conclusion

Within the periodontal stroma, citrullination is an inflammation‐depended process. In periodontal epithelium, citrullination is a physiological process. Additional citrullinated proteins are formed in periodontitis, apparently similar to those formed in RA‐affected synovial tissue. Periodontitis induced citrullination may play a role in the aetiology of rheumatoid arthritis.
A systematic review on the frequency of advanced recession following single immediate implant treatment
Authors: Cosyn Jan , Hooghe Nele , De Bruyn Hugo
Published: April 2012

Purpose

It has been stated that midfacial recession is common following immediate implant treatment (IIT). The objective of this systematic review was to assess the frequency of advanced recession (>1 mm) following single IIT.

Material and methods

An electronic search in Pubmed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Oral Health Group Specialized Trials Register database was performed using a search algorithm. Reference lists of relevant articles were also scrutinized to identify prospective studies on ≥10 implants installed in patients with an intact buccal bone wall and followed for ≥12 months. Study eligibility and quality were independently assessed by two investigators. Primary outcome variables were advanced inter‐proximal and midfacial recession defined as soft tissue loss surpassing 1 mm between the pre‐ or postoperative status and the final re‐assessment.

Results

Thirteen of 171 papers were selected. Inter‐examiner agreement on eligibility (κ = 0.879; p < 0.001) and quality (κ = 0.788; p < 0.001) was high. Advanced inter‐proximal recession was described in 0–27% of the cases. However, these data were only based on two studies. Mean inter‐proximal recession was frequently reported (11/13) and was <1 mm in all studies suggesting limited risk for advanced inter‐proximal recession. Advanced midfacial recession was described in 0–64% of the cases. Again, few papers provided such information (4/13). Only one of these studies demonstrated high risk for advanced midfacial recession (>10%). This could be attributed to the fact that implants had not been restored with an immediate implant crown, which seems of pivotal importance given the results of a randomized controlled trial reporting on the preserving effect of immediate provisionalization on midfacial mucosa level. There is limited evidence to support an increased risk for midfacial recession following flap surgery and in patients with a thin‐scalloped gingival biotype. The impact of implant‐specific parameters on inter‐proximal and midfacial soft tissue level seems conflicting.

Conclusions

Soft tissue recession may be expected following IIT and multiple factors seem to contribute to the phenomenon. Taking into account the paucity of papers, patients with an intact buccal bone wall and thick gingival biotype, treated by means of flapless surgery and an immediate implant crown may demonstrate limited risk for advanced midfacial recession (<10%). Proper risk assessment addressing diagnostic, surgical and restorative aspects is mandatory to avoid compromised outcome of IIT.
Sodium tetrachloropalladate for diagnosing palladium sensitization
Authors: Muris Joris , Kleverlaan Cornelis J. , Rustemeyer Thomas , von Blomberg Mary E. , van Hoogstraten Ingrid M. W. , Feilzer Albert J. , Scheper Rik J.
Published: April 2012

Background. Exposure to palladium (Pd) may lead to clinical allergic reactions. With frequent nickel (Ni) exposure and cross‐reactivity between Ni and Pd at the T cell recognition level, positive Pd reactions on patch testing are surprisingly uncommon. PdCl2 is often used for epicutaneous patch testing.

Objectives. To compare the sensitivity and specificity of sodium tetrachloropalladate (Na2PdCl4) and PdCl2 for Pd patch testing in metal‐allergic patients and non‐allergic controls.

Methods. Twenty‐six metal‐allergic patients and 26 non‐allergic controls were selected on the basis of detailed medical histories. Patch test results were used to determine the diagnostic performance of the two Pd salts as compared with NiSO4.

Results. With three outliers in both groups, the sensitivity/specificity were calculated to be 42%/96% for PdCl2, 65%/92% for Na2PdCl4, and 77%/92% for NiSO4. Furthermore, of all (n = 19) Na2PdCl4 reactors, 17 (89%) also showed positive reactions to NiSO4. Conversely, of all (n = 22) NiSO4 reactors, 17 (77%) showed concomitant positive reactions to Na2PdCl4.

Conclusions. Positive test reactions to Na2PdCl4 are confirmed by large‐scale concordant reactions to PdCl2 and NiSO4. Although statistical significance was not reached, the increased sensitivity has important clinical relevance, as false‐positive results are rare. Incorporation of Na2PdCl4 into standard and/or dental screening patch test series is suggested.