bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dishabituation of Laser-evoked EEG Responses: Dissecting the Effect of Certain and Uncertain Changes in Stimulus Modality
Authors: Valentini Elia , Torta Diana M. E. , Mouraux André , Iannetti Gian Domenico
Published: January 2011

The repetition of nociceptive stimuli of identical modality, intensity, and location at short and constant interstimulus intervals (ISIs) determines a strong habituation of the corresponding EEG responses, without affecting the subjective perception of pain. To understand what determines this response habituation, we (i) examined the effect of introducing a change in the modality of the repeated stimulus, and (ii) dissected the relative contribution of bottom–up, stimulus-driven changes in modality and top–down, cognitive expectations of such a change, on both laser-evoked and auditory-evoked EEG responses. Multichannel EEG was recorded while participants received trains of three stimuli (S1–S2–S3, a triplet) delivered to the hand dorsum at 1-sec ISI. S3 belonged either to the same modality as S1 and S2 or to the other modality. In addition, participants were either explicitly informed or not informed of the modality of S3. We found that introducing a change in stimulus modality produced a significant dishabituation of the laser-evoked N1, N2, and P2 waves; the auditory N1 and P2 waves; and the laser- and auditory-induced event-related synchronization and desynchronization. In contrast, the lack of explicit knowledge of a possible change in the sensory modality of the stimulus (i.e., uncertainty) only increased the ascending portion of the laser-evoked and auditory-evoked P2 wave. Altogether, these results indicate that bottom–up novelty resulting from the change of stimulus modality, and not top–down cognitive expectations, plays a major role in determining the habituation of these brain responses.
Color, Context, and Cognitive Style: Variations in Color Knowledge Retrieval as a Function of Task and Subject Variables
Authors: Hsu Nina S. , Kraemer David J. M. , Oliver Robyn T. , Schlichting Margaret L. , Thompson-Schill Sharon L.
Published: January 2011

Neuroimaging tests of sensorimotor theories of semantic memory hinge on the extent to which similar activation patterns are observed during perception and retrieval of objects or object properties. The present study was motivated by the hypothesis that some of the seeming discrepancies across studies reflect flexibility in the systems responsible for conceptual and perceptual processing of color. Specifically, we test the hypothesis that retrieval of color knowledge can be influenced by both context (a task variable) and individual differences in cognitive style (a subject variable). In Experiment 1, we provide fMRI evidence for differential activity during color knowledge retrieval by having subjects perform a verbal task, in which context encouraged subjects to retrieve more- or less-detailed information about the colors of named common objects in a blocked experimental design. In the left fusiform, we found more activity during retrieval of more- versus less-detailed color knowledge. We also assessed preference for verbal or visual cognitive style, finding that brain activity in the left lingual gyrus significantly correlated with preference for a visual cognitive style. We replicated many of these effects in Experiment 2, in which stimuli were presented more quickly, in a random order, and in the auditory modality. This illustration of some of the factors that can influence color knowledge retrieval leads to the conclusion that tests of conceptual and perceptual overlap must consider variation in both of these processes.
Mechanism of Concentric Eyewall Replacement Cycles and Associated Intensity Change*
Authors: Zhou Xiaqiong , Wang Bin
Published: January 2011

To understand the mechanisms responsible for the secondary eyewall replacement cycles and associated intensity changes in intense tropical cyclones (TCs), two numerical experiments are conducted in this study with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. In the experiments, identical initial conditions and model parameters are utilized except that the concentration of ice particles is enhanced in the sensitivity run. With enhanced ice concentrations, it is found that the secondary eyewall forms at an increased radius, the time required for eyewall replacement is extended, and the intensity fluctuation is relatively large. The enhanced concentrations of ice particles at the upper tropospheric outflow layer produces a noticeable subsidence region (moat) surrounding the primary eyewall. The presence of the moat forces the secondary eyewall to form at a relatively large radius. The axisymmetric equivalent potential temperature budget analysis reveals that the demise of the inner eyewall is primarily due to the interception of the boundary layer inflow supply of entropy by the outer convective ring, whereas the advection of low entropy air from the middle levels to the boundary inflow layers in the moat is not essential. The interception process becomes inefficient when the secondary eyewall is at a large radius; hence, the corresponding eyewall replacement is slow. After the demise of the inner eyewall, the outer eyewall has to maintain a warm core not only in the previous eye, but also in the moat. The presence of low equivalent potential temperature air in the moat results in the significant weakening of storm intensity. The results found here suggest that monitoring the features of the moat and the outer eyewall region can provide a clue for the prediction of TC intensity change associated with eyewall replacement.
High-Resolution Initialization and Simulations of Typhoon Morakot (2009)
Authors: Van Nguyen Hiep , Chen Yi-Leng
Published: January 2011

A model self-bogus vortex is constructed by cycle runs using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to provide high-resolution initial conditions for tropical cyclone (TC) simulations. The vortex after 1 h of model simulation is used to construct the vortex structure for the initial conditions for the next cycle run. After about 80 cycle runs, the TC structure is well adapted to the model employed and well adjusted to the given large-scale conditions.

Three separate simulations using three different initial conditions including global analysis (CTRL), the bogus package from WRF (WB), and the new initialization package (NT) are performed for Typhoon Morakot (2009). The NT scheme shows advantages in generating realistic vortex features including sea level pressure, winds, a warm core, and correct TC size with the meteorological fields away from the observed TC center consistent with the global analysis. The NT scheme also shows significant improvements in TC simulations including asymmetric structure, track, intensity, strength of low-level winds, radar reflectivity, and rainfall. For other runs, such as WB and CTRL, the unbalanced initial vortex needs to adjust to the changing environment during the first 2–3 days of model simulations, which is likely to have negative impacts on the track, intensity, and rainfall forecasts in most cases.

For all three different types of model initializations, the model is capable of simulating heavy orographic precipitation over southern Taiwan. However, with a better track forecast, only the NT run simulates the high-reflectivity band associated with the convergence zone between Morakot’s circulations and the southwest monsoon off the southeast coast. In addition to Morakot’s slow movement and relatively large size, Typhoons Goni and Etau were embedded within a moist monsoon gyre. The combined circulations associated with the monsoon gyre and tropical storms bring in moisture-laden flows toward the western slopes of southern Taiwan.
Needle Aspiration for the Etiologic Diagnosis of Children With Cellulitis in the Era of Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Patel Wylie Falgun , Kaplan Sheldon L. , Mason Edward O. , Allen Coburn H.
Published: January 2011

Objective: Cellulitis is a common problem in children but determining the causative agent is difficult. One tool used to identify the etiology is needle aspiration. The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of needle aspiration in pediatric patients with cellulitis in the era of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA). Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study conducted in the emergency department of a tertiary care children’s hospital. A convenience sample of healthy children, 0 to 18 years old, with cellulitis were enrolled. A standard cellulitis aspiration technique was performed. Results: Twenty patients were enrolled and had cultures obtained. The etiologic agent was determined in 15% (3/20) of patients. The positive cultures were all MRSA. Conclusions: Although needle aspiration of cellulitis was of low yield, the only pathogens isolated in this study were CA-MRSA. Empiric antibiotics for cellulitis should include coverage for MRSA. In circumstances in which bacterial etiology and antibiotic susceptibility knowledge would be critical, needle aspiration should be considered.
Management of Skin Abscesses by Primary Care Pediatricians
Authors: Kemper Alex R. , Dolor Rowena J. , Fowler Vance G.
Published: January 2011

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of skin abscesses. Objective: To evaluate primary care pediatricians’ management of skin abscesses. Methods: A national mail survey of a random sample of 385 general pediatricians conducted from April to June 2010. Results: The response rate was 49%. Most respondents (72%) were aware that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommendations for the management of soft tissue infections. Only 10% reported that no one in their practice could perform incision and drainage an uncomplicated abscess. Approximately one third (34%) reported that it is too time consuming to do so. About half (55%) were interested in further training in abscess management. Conclusion: Although most primary care pediatric practices are prepared to manage uncomplicated abscesses, more than half were interested in further training in the management of this condition. A comprehensive training program of skin infections could not only improve abscess management but also decrease barriers related to such care.
Developing and Testing a Touch-Path Model for Hand Hygiene and Pathogen Risk
Authors: Berry Thomas D. , Fournier Angela K. , Porter Bryan E.
Published: January 2011

Researchers explored 48 fast-food restaurant and coffee shop restrooms for factors that influence hand hygiene and the spread of disease. Using a naturalistic-observation approach, a catalogue of restroom design features requiring a hand touch were tabulated. Restroom data provided the basis for a conceptual framework for modeling pathogen risk, as defined by the number of hand touches to operate a restroom facility. The touch-path model tested whether men’s and women’s “perceptions of risk” and “intent to hand wash” were influenced by restroom use of commodes, urinals, design innovations, and other design configurations. Results showed that men’s and women’s perceptions of risk and intent to hand wash decreased as a function of design innovations. Women, as compared with men, reported greater perceptions of risk and intent to hand wash. In addition to the social-norm and self-awareness theory, this research supported the approach of understanding design-behavior interactions with respect to hand hygiene.
The Odontogenic Keratocyst
Authors: Li T.-J.
Published: January 2011

The odontogenic keratocyst (OKC, currently designated by the World Health Organization as a keratocystic odontogenic tumor) is a locally aggressive, cystic jaw lesion with a putative high growth potential and a propensity for recurrence. Although it is generally agreed that some features of OKCs are those of a neoplasia, notably the relatively high proliferative rate of epithelial cells, controversies over the behavior and management of OKCs still exist. This article is intended to review this intriguing entity and to summarize the findings of recent studies related to the nature of OKCs and their clinical and therapeutic implications. Recent advances in genetic and molecular research, i.e., PTCH1 mutations and involvement of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, have led to increased knowledge of OKC pathogenesis which hints at potential new treatment options, although the question of whether the OKC is a cyst or a cystic neoplasm is yet to be answered with certainty. Since some advocate a more conservative treatment for OKCs, notably marsupialization and decompression, future treatment strategies may focus on molecular approaches and eventually reduce or eliminate the need for aggressive surgeries.
The Roles of Angiotensin II in Stretched Periodontal Ligament Cells
Authors: Monnouchi S. , Maeda H. , Fujii S. , Tomokiyo A. , Kono K. , Akamine A.
Published: January 2011

The loading caused by occlusion and mastication plays an important role in maintaining periodontal ligament (PDL) tissues. We hypothesized that a loading magnitude would be involved in the production of biological factors that function in the maintenance of PDL tissues. Here, we identified up-regulated gene expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and angiotensinogen in human PDL fibroblastic cells (HPLFs) that were exposed to 8% stretch loading. Immunolocalization of angiotensin I/II (Ang I/II), which was converted from angiotensinogen, was detected in rat PDL tissues. HPLFs that were stimulated by Ang II also increased their gene expressions of TGF-β1 and ALP. Furthermore, the antagonist for Ang II type 2 receptor, rather than for type 1, significantly inhibited gene expressions induced by the stretch loading. Analysis of these data suggests that Ang II mediates the loading signal in stretched HPLFs to induce expressions of TGF-β1 and ALP.
Study of water vapor permeability of shape memory polyurethane nanofibrous nonwovens
Authors: Haitao Zhuo  , Jinlian Hu  , Shaojun Chen
Published: January 2011

In this paper, water vapor permeability (WVP) properties of shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) nanofibrous nonwovens are investigated systematically. The results indicate that, in addition to the excellent shape memory effect, the SMPU nanofibrous nonwovens show excellent liquid transfer properties and water vapor transport properties. Moreover, the WVP of a SMPU nanofibrous nonwoven is sensitive to the change of relative humidity (RH) and temperature. For example, the WVP decreases with the increase of RH above a critical RH, e.g. 50%, and increases significantly with the increase of temperature below a turnover temperature, e.g. 50°C. The diameter of the nanofiber has little influence on the WVP while the turnover temperature is higher in SMPU nanofibrous nonwovens with larger diameters. Finally, SEM images at a higher temperature suggest that the porous nanofibrous nonwoven structure is the foundation of unique WVP properties, and the collapse of the nanofiber at the higher temperature results in the abrupt decrease in WVP.
An overview on fabrication of three-dimensional woven textile preforms for composites
Authors: Xiaogang Chen  , Taylor Lindsay Waterton , Tsai Li-Ju
Published: January 2011

There are various manufacturing processes for the interlacement of yarns to produce three-dimensional (3D) fabric structures as preforms for textile composites. The manufacturing route is determined by the end-use of composites and therefore the composite industry does not solely rely on one method but a selection of methods for fabric formation. This paper attempts to make a comprehensive overview on fabrication methods that can be used for making 3D textile woven preforms for composites. There are many different views on what 3D woven fabrics are, but one common understanding is that 3D fabrics must have substantial dimension in the thickness direction formed by layers of fabrics or yarns. In this paper we classify 3D woven textiles into those that can be manufactured on the conventional weaving technology and those that require specially made weaving machines/devices. This paper attempts to provide useful information for both the textile and composite engineers in developing textile composites for advanced applications.
Numerical analysis of the mechanical behavior of a ring-spinning triangle using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Sheng Yan Li  , Bin Gang Xu  , Xiao Ming Tao  , Jie Feng
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this study is to investigate the quantitative relationships between the mechanical performance of a ring-spinning triangle and the spinning parameters by using the Finite Element Method (FEM). The constituent fibers in the ring-spinning triangle are considered as three-dimensional elastic beam elements with tensile, compressive, torsional, and bending capabilities. The accuracy of the proposed FEM model in calculating the fiber tension distribution of the spinning triangle has been validated by comparing it with earlier models and experimental data. Compared with the earlier models, some important theoretical factors ignored previously, including the fiber torsional strain and the frictional contact of fibers with the bottom roller, are considered in the current model. With the input of various spinning parameters, some essential factors of the spinning triangle, including the fiber tension distribution and fiber torsion distribution, are numerically examined and their quantitative relationships are discussed in detail.
N‐acetylcysteine as a Novel Prophylactic Treatment for Ifosfamide‐Induced Nephrotoxicity in Children: Translational Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Hanly Lauren N. , Chen Nancy , Aleksa Katarina , Cutler Murray , Bajcetic Milica , Palassery Rasmi , Regueira Osvaldo , Turner Curtis , Baw Bandar , Malkin Becky , Freeman David , Rieder Michael J. , Vasylyeva Tetyana L. , Koren Gideon
Published: January 2011

Ifosfamide (IFO), which is used in the treatment of pediatric solid tumors, causes high rates of nephrotoxicity. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), an antidote for acetaminophen overdose, has been shown to prevent IFO‐induced renal cell death and nephrotoxicity in both LLCPK‐1 cells and a rat model. To facilitate the use of NAC in preventing IFO‐induced nephrotoxicity in children, the authors compared the systemic exposure to NAC in children treated for acetaminophen overdose to the systemic exposure of the therapeutically effective rat model. The mean systemic exposure in the rat model was 18.72 mM·h (range, 9.92–30.02 mM·h), compared to the mean systemic exposure found in treated children (14.48 mM·h; range, 6.22–32.96 mM·h). They also report 2 pediatric cases in which NAC‐attenuated acute renal failure associated with IFO when given concurrently with their chemotherapy treatment. Systemic exposure to NAC measured in 1 of these cases was comparable to that in the children treated for acetaminophen overdose. These results corroborate NAC's potential to protect against IFO‐induced nephrotoxicity in children when used in its clinically approved dose schedule and supports a clinical trial in children.
Model‐Based Evaluation of Similarity in Pharmacokinetics of Two Formulations of the Blood‐Derived Plasma Product C1 Esterase Inhibitor
Authors: Keizer Ron J. , Budde Ilona Kleine , Sprengers Paul F. W. , Levi M. , Beijnen Jos H. , Huitema Alwin D. R.
Published: January 2011

A novel formulation of C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate, a plasma product used in the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE), was studied in a clinical trial for similarity in pharmacokinetics (PK) compared with the reference product. Direct trial data were limited given the availability of patients, and therefore a modeling approach was used to study similarity. Type I error of the study was evaluated using simulations based on retrospective data. A population PK modeling analysis was performed on data from the trial. Analysis of variance was carried out on results of a noncompartmental PK analysis (NCA) of the clinical data. Simulations showed that type I error was inflated to 62% (P < .05) when bioequivalence criteria (confidence intervals within 80%‐125%) were adhered to strictly. In the clinical trial, 13 HAE patients were evaluable. The population PK analysis showed no significant differences in PK parameters, whereas confidence intervals for all parameters were within 80% to 125%. The relative differences in area under the curve, incremental recovery, and mean residence time estimated using NCA were all close to 1. The novel formulation showed similar PK characteristics to the original formulation. The model‐based approach showed that strict criteria for PK comparison could not be applied in this analysis.
Whispering: the murmur of power in a lo-fi world
Authors: Xinghua Li
Published: January 2011

As the Industrial Revolution and the Electric Revolution turn our acoustic environment into a ‘lo-fi’ soundscape, modern communication tends to evolve into an escalating ‘volume war’ where one shouts, yells, cries and screams. This article challenges the assumption that ‘volume is power’ and explores an alternative mode of vocal emission — the whisper. Weak in volume and yet persistent in resonance, evanescent in space and yet lingering in time, elusive to knowledge and yet haunting to unconscious desires, whispering questions some key assumptions about the relationships among voice, body, space and power. Commonly used in private address (by mothers, lovers and friends), whispering bears the imprint of domesticity and is seldom related to publicness. When associated with politics (e.g. the whispering politicians), it reminds us of secret plots, double dealings and the obscene underside of publicness. Is whispering doomed to turn sour when it enters the public space? Can we bring out its subversive power and make it a political act? This article explores the various ramifications of whispering in physiology, theology, sociology, psychoanalysis, ethics and theorizes a new type of political agency that is urgently needed in our contemporary lo-fi world — the world of acoustic claustrophobia and attention deficit.
A Spontaneous Teratocarcinoma in the Testis of a Swiss Albino Mouse
Authors: Jamadagni S. B. , Jamadagni P. S. , Upadhyay S. N. , Gaidhani S. N. , Hazra J.
Published: January 2011

A unilateral non-metastatic embryonal carcinoma and teratoma of the testis was observed in a 12-week-old Swiss Albino mouse at the end of a 28-day repeated dose toxicity study. The teratocarcinoma almost completely replaced the parenchyma of the left testis. The tumor was composed of sheets and rosettes of primitive embryonal cells, anaplastic cells, skeletal muscle tissue, sebaceous gland tissue, keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, and ciliated cuboidal epithelium. The histomorphological characteristics of the tumor were reviewed and presented in this report. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of spontaneous teratocarcinoma of testis in the Swiss Albino strain of mice.
Proliferative and Molecular Effects of the Dual PPARα/γ Agonist Tesaglitazar in Rat Adipose Tissues: Relevance for Induction of Fibrosarcoma
Authors: Glinghammar Björn , Berg Anna-Lena , Bjurström Sivert , Stockling Kenneth , Blomgren Bo , Westerberg Rolf , Skånberg Inger , Hellmold Heike , Andersson Ulf
Published: January 2011

The dual peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α/γ agonist tesaglitazar has been shown to produce fibrosarcomas in rats. Here, the authors studied morphology, proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation markers in adipose tissue from rats exposed to 1, 3, or 10 µmol/kg tesaglitazar for 2 or 12 weeks, including recovery groups (12 weeks treatment followed by 12 weeks recovery), and 3 or 10 µmol/kg tesaglitazar for 24 weeks. Subcutaneous white and brown fat revealed reversible dose-related histopathological alterations and after 12 and 24 weeks developed areas of thickened skin (fatty lumps). There was a dose-dependent increase in proliferation of interstitial cells in white and brown fat as shown by increased mitotic index in all dose groups after 2 weeks. This was limited to the high dose after 12 and 24 weeks in white fat. Gene expression analyses showed that while tesaglitazar induced differentiation of adipose tissue characterized with a switch in cyclin D1 and D3 mRNA by 12 weeks, longer exposure at high doses reversed this differentiation concurrent with a reappearance of early adipocyte and inflammatory markers. These data suggest that sustained increased turnover of mesenchymal cells in adipose tissues, concomitant with onset of inflammation and fibrosis, drives development of fibrosarcomas in rats treated with tesaglitazar.
Industry–Contract Research Organization Pathology Interactions
Authors: Gosselin Sylvie J. , Palate Bernard , Parker George A. , Engelhardt Jeffery A. , Hardisty Jerry F. , McDorman Kevin S. , Tellier Pierre A. , Silverman Lee R.
Published: January 2011

This article provides observations on the features of sponsor–contract research organization communication that will achieve the best quality pathology report based on our collective experience. Information on the test article and any anticipated findings should be provided, and initial slide examination should be done with knowledge of treatment group (but may be followed by blinded review of target tissues to determine no-effect levels). Only a pathologist should write or revise the pathology report or the pathology section of the overall study report. To address concerns related to undue sponsor influence, comments by sponsors should be presented as suggestions rather than directives. Adversity should be defined for each finding by the study pathologist, but the no-observed adverse effect level should not be discussed in the pathology report. Board-certified pathologists are recommended, but are not essential. Sponsors that have a particular format or report preferences should make them known well in advance. Histologic processing “to glass” of protocol-specified tissues from all dosage groups is recommended for rapid evaluation of target tissues. Telepathology is beneficial in certain situations, but it is usually more efficient for the study pathologist and reviewing pathologist to be in the same physical location to review differences of opinion and reach a consensus.
Acute effects of donepezil in healthy young adults underline the fractionation of executive functioning
Authors: Ginani GE , Tufik S , Bueno OFA , Pradella-Hallinan M , Rusted J , Pompéia S
Published: January 2011

The cholinergic system is involved in the modulation of both bottom-up and top-down attentional control. Top-down attention engages multiple executive control processes, but few studies have investigated whether all or selective elements of executive functions are modulated by the cholinergic system. To investigate the acute effects of the pro-cholinergic donepezil in young, healthy volunteers on distinct components of executive functions we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, independent-groups design study including 42 young healthy male participants who were randomly assigned to one of three oral treatments: glucose (placebo), donepezil 5 mg or donepezil 7.5 mg. The test battery included measures of different executive components (shifting, updating, inhibition, dual-task performance, planning, access to long-term memory), tasks that evaluated arousal/vigilance/visuomotor performance, as well as functioning of working memory subsidiary systems. Donepezil improved sustained attention, reaction times, dual-task performance and the executive component of digit span. The positive effects in these executive tasks did not correlate with arousal/visuomotor/vigilance measures. Among the various executive domains investigated donepezil selectively increased dual-task performance in a manner that could not be ascribed to improvement in arousal/vigilance/visuomotor performance nor working memory slave systems. Other executive tasks that rely heavily on visuospatial processing may also be modulated by the cholinergic system.
Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores are elevated in antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinaemia
Authors: Lawford Bruce R , Barnes Mark , Connor Jason P , Heslop Karen , Nyst Phillip , Young Ross McD
Published: January 2011

Hyperprolactinaemia in antipsychotic treated patients with schizophrenia is a consequence of D2 receptor (DRD2) blockade. Alcohol use disorder is commonly comorbid with schizophrenia and low availability of striatal DRD2 may predispose individuals to alcohol use. In this pilot study we investigated whether hyperprolactinaemia secondary to pharmacological DRD2 blockade was associated with alcohol use disorder in 219 (178 males and 41 females) patients with schizophrenia. Serum prolactin determinations were made in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and maintained on antipsychotic agents. Clinical assessment included demographics, family history and administration of the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test). Higher AUDIT scores were associated with prolactin-raising antipsychotic medication ( n = 106) compared with prolactin-sparing medication ( n = 113). Risperidone ( n = 63) treated patients had higher AUDIT scores and prolactin levels than those on other atypical antipsychotics ( n = 113). Across the entire sample, patients with a prolactin greater than 800 mIU/L had higher AUDIT scores and were more likely to exceed the cut-off score for harmful and hazardous alcohol use. These differences were not explained by potential confounds related to clinical features and demographics, comorbidity or medication side-effects. These data suggest that by lowering dosage, or switching to another antipsychotic agent, the risk for alcohol use disorder in those with schizophrenia may be reduced. This hypothesis requires testing using a prospective methodology.
Developing a functional method to apply music in branding: Design language-generated music
Authors: Brodsky Warren
Published: January 2011

Manufacturers, marketing agencies, and researchers of consumer studies have handled music in a haphazard fashion. Music is often captive to financial resources, political agendas, or lack of know-how; choices rarely reflect criteria attributable to the brand. Linking music to a brand or product is a liability, as consumers’ impressions can be manipulated by incongruent music, causing brand image to shift. The current study developed a strategy for applying music by employing design language as a template for composition. Two General Motors (GM) automobile brands served as products under investigation. Four studies, in two countries, recruited potential customers, sales clerks, walk-in buyers, and targeted consumers. The investigation found that consumers could decode composers’ intentions to express brand characteristics and product features, and were consistently successful in designating design language-generated music to the appropriate brand. The study found both culturally specific and cultural-free brand images as expressed through music preferences.
Non-hardware Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Knot/Press-fit Technique With Periosteum-Enveloped Hamstrings Tendon Autograft
Authors: Chuang Tai-Yuan , Ho Wei-Pin , Chen Chih-Hwa , Shieh Ming-Hsin , Liau Jiann-Jong , Huang Chang-Hung
Published: January 2011

Background: Several posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction procedures have been proposed to manage ruptures.

Purpose: This study was intended to present the clinical results of non-hardware reconstruction of posterior cruciate ligament using a knot/press-fit technique with periosteum-enveloped autogenous hamstring tendons.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: This arthroscopically assisted technique was used in 33 patients with posterior cruciate ligament ruptures. In this non-hardware technique, semitendinosus and gracilis tendons were prepared as 2 loops with knots. Each loop was enveloped in periosteum. After passing a bottleneck femoral tunnel, the grafts were fixed with a press-fit method (knotted grafts lodging in the bottleneck of the femoral tunnel). Simultaneously, the intra-articular opening of the tibial tunnel was filled with the periosteum-enveloped portion of the graft. A tie with Mersilene tape over a bone bridge for each tendon loop was used for tibial fixation.

Results: The average follow-up was 35 months (range, 24-60 months). Clinical assessments included Tegner score, Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee scores, thigh muscle assessment, and radiographic evaluation. The stress radiography results for posterior displacement changed from 13.7 ± 2.1 mm preoperatively to 4.8 ± 1.1 mm postoperatively. Average preinjury Tegner score was 5.9 (range, 3-9), decreasing to 2.9 (range, 2-5) preoperatively and increasing to 5.2 (range, 2-9) postoperatively. The Lysholm score increased from 58.5 ± 5.2 to 94.2 ± 4.1 ( P < .01). Finally, 26 patients (89.7%) were assessed as nearly normal by International Knee Documentation Committee guidelines.

Conclusion: The study revealed satisfactory clinical subjective and objective results at a minimum of 2 years’ follow-up. Without using hardware, this alternative technique has the advantage of no need for removal of hardware and potentially easier magnetic resonance imaging interpretation and revision surgery.
Influenza-Associated Encephalopathy With Elevated Antibody Titers to Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza
Authors: Thampi Nisha , Bitnun Ari , Banner David , Rowe Thomas , Kelvin David J. , Richardson Susan E. , Parkin Patricia , Tran Dat
Published: January 2011

Pandemic H1N1 influenza (pH1N1) has been associated with encephalopathy, but the role of adaptive immunity in disease pathogenesis remains unclear. A child presented with seizures 5 days after onset of respiratory symptoms with pH1N1, with no detectable virus in cerebrospinal fluid. The authors compared her serum cytokines and pH1N1 antibody titers to those of 22 children with pH1N1, seasonal influenza, or other respiratory viral infections. They also compared her cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers to those of 20 children with confirmed or probable central nervous system infection or viral infection without central nervous system involvement. Her serum antibody titers were several-fold higher, and levels of proinflammatory cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid and serum were lower than those of controls. Antibody titers in cerebrospinal fluid were undetectable. The delayed onset of neurologic manifestations, normal cytokine levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid, markedly elevated hemagglutinating and neutralizing antibody titers, and absence of virus and antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid raise the possibility of a post-infectious autoimmune-mediated process.
Role of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene (MTHFR) 677C>T Polymorphism in Pediatric Cerebrovascular Disorders
Authors: Alsayouf Hamza , Zamel Khaled M. , Heyer Geoffrey L. , Khuhro A. Latif , Kahwash Samir B. , de los Reyes Emily C.
Published: January 2011

Homozygosity for the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C>T mutation (MTHFR TT) has been linked to an increased risk for stroke, coronary artery disease, and migraine headaches. The authors analyzed the potential link between MTHFR 677C>T homozygosity and childhood stroke. A true association might facilitate screening, recurrence risk stratification, and treatment in patients with cerebrovascular disease. They performed a retrospective chart review of children tested for the MTHFR 677C>/T mutation; 533 patients underwent MTHFR testing, and 8% were homozygous for the MTHFR 677C>T mutation. There was no difference in the cohort compared with the prevalence in the general population. This suggests that the MTHFR 677 C>T polymorphism played a minimal role or no role in stroke risk. However, the data suggest that the MTHFR TT genotype may influence migraine susceptibility in children because there was a higher proportion of migraine patients (28.6%) with the MTHFR TT homozygous genotype.
Comment On: Gastric Residual Volume During Enteral Nutrition in ICU Patients: The REGANE Study Montejo JC, Miñambres E, Bordejé L, et al
Authors: Mullin Gerard E.
Published: January 2011

Objective: To compare the effects of increasing the limit for gastric residual volume (GRV) in the adequacy of enteral nutrition. Frequency of gastrointestinal complications and outcome variables were secondary goals. Design: An open, prospective, randomized study. Setting: Twenty‐eight intensive care units in Spain. Patients: Three hundred twenty‐nine intubated and mechanically ventilated adult patients with enteral nutrition (EN). Interventions: EN was administered by nasogastric tube. A protocol for management of EN‐related gastrointestinal complications was used. Patients were randomized to be included in a control (GRV = 200 mL) or in study group (GRV = 500 mL). Measurements and Results: Diet volume ratio (diet received/diet prescribed), incidence of gastrointestinal complications, ICU acquired pneumonia; days on mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay were the study variables. Gastrointestinal complications were higher in the control group (63.6 vs. 47.8%, P = 0.004), but the only difference was in the frequency of high GRV (42.4 vs. 26.8%, P = 0.003). The diet volume ratio was higher for the study group only during the 1st week (84.48 vs. 88.20%) (P = 0.0002). Volume ratio was similar for both groups in weeks 3 and 4. Duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU length of stay or frequency of pneumonia were similar. Conclusions: Diet volume ratio of mechanically ventilated patients treated with enteral nutrition is not affected by increasing the limit in GRV. A limit of 500 mL is not associated with adverse effects in gastrointestinal complications or in outcome variables. A value of 500 mL can be equally recommended as a normal limit for GRV. (Intensive Care Med. 2010;36:1386–1393. Published online ahead of print March 16, 2010).
Glucose Control in the Intensive Care Unit: A Nutrition Support Perspective
Authors: Krenitsky Joe
Published: January 2011

Hyperglycemia commonly occurs in acutely ill patients who receive nutrition support, even in patients without a history of diabetes. The traditional view that stress hyperglycemia may be a beneficial adaptive response has been replaced by data linking hyperglycemia with increased morbidity and mortality in critically ill populations. Initial randomized studies to control stress hyperglycemia with intensive insulin infusion reported dramatic decreases in infectious complications and decreased mortality. However, recent large multicenter trials have reported that intensive insulin therapy designed to normalize blood glucose resulted in an unacceptable increase in the incidence of hypoglycemia. Review of the methods, protocols, and nutrition provided during these randomized studies is crucial to understanding the different conclusions reached and how these results may be used to influence protocols in intensive care units today. Evidence is reviewed and practical considerations are provided for nutrition support regimens to minimize stress hypoglycemia and assist glucose management.
The Feeding Tube Bridle: One Inexpensive, Safe, and Effective Method to Prevent Inadvertent Feeding Tube Dislodgement
Authors: McGinnis Carol
Published: January 2011

Nasally placed feeding tubes are heavily relied on in healthcare. Inadvertent tube removal not only poses safety hazards and discomfort for the patient, but also causes strain on valuable healthcare resources. Because use of restraints can agitate patients, increase safety hazards, and create a sense of depersonalization, alternative methods to prevent inadvertent tube removal are desirable. This article describes a feeding tube bridle constructed with supplies that are inexpensive and readily available to most patient care units. This method has been successfully utilized for patients at significant risk for self‐initiated feeding tube removal in one Midwestern facility for many years without adverse effects. The method of bridling feeding tubes described here is effective, safe, and relatively comfortable as well as minimally noticeable to the patient and others. (Nutr Clin Pract. 2011;26:70–77)
Effect of Glutamine‐Supplemented Parenteral Nutrition on Mortality in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Sacks Gordon S.
Published: January 2011

Glutamine is recognized as a critical amino acid involved in immunity, intestinal health, and nitrogen transport between organs. Prior to the pivotal study by Griffiths and colleagues in 1997, no clinical trials had demonstrated a positive effect from glutamine supplementation on improving long‐term survival in critically ill intensive care unit patients receiving parenteral nutrition. Subsequent investigations have confirmed these findings, but further data are needed to determine the optimal dose and timing of glutamine as well as the form of glutamine (ie, free vs dipeptide) that produces the most significant improvement in outcome parameters. (Nutr Clin Pract. 2011;26:44–47)
Industrial Legacy Matters: Implications for the Development and Use of Indices of Regional Competitiveness
Authors: Barkley David L. , Dudensing Rebekka M.
Published: January 2011

This article addresses the usefulness of indices of regional competitiveness in guiding economic development strategies for communities with different industrial legacies. Growth models for employment and per capita income are estimated for 151 metropolitan areas in the Southern United States. The explanatory variables for regional growth include measures of New Economy inputs (innovation, human capital, and entrepreneurial environment) and industry structure (composition, size, age, and diversity). The findings indicate that metro growth rates in per capita income are associated primarily with New Economy inputs whereas employment growth rates are related primarily to industry structure characteristics. In addition, interaction terms between the policy and structure variables indicate that policy inferences from indices of competitiveness should vary by city type. For example, increases in knowledge workers and entrepreneurial environment are more positively associated with income growth rates in the smaller, more specialized metropolitan areas. Economic history and industrial legacy matter in the application of competitiveness indices to inform economic development policy.
Dissociating Spatial Attention and Awareness in Emotion-Induced Blindness
Authors: Most Steven B. , Wang Lingling
Published: January 2011

Emotional stimuli attract spatial attention, sometimes improving perception at their location. But they also can disrupt awareness of targets at their location, a phenomenon known as emotion-induced blindness. Such discrepant findings might reflect the impact of emotional stimuli on different perception mechanisms. We dissociated spatial attention and awareness by investigating the spatial distribution of emotion-induced blindness. Participants searched for a target within two simultaneous rapid streams of pictures, one of which could also contain a preceding emotional distractor. When targets were followed by additional stream items, emotion-induced blindness occurred only at the location of the distractor. However, when no items appeared after the target, so that it could persist in iconic memory and its temporal position was easily discernible, emotional disruption of target perception was more robust away from the distractor’s location than at the distractor’s location. The results suggest that although emotional distractors attract spatial attention, they inhibit identification of competing items potentially linked to the same spatiotemporal position.
Changes in Mediterranean climate during the Holocene: Insights from global and regional climate modelling
Authors: Brayshaw David J. , Rambeau Claire M.C. , Smith Samuel J.
Published: January 2011

Palaeoproxy records alone are seldom sufficient to provide a full assessment of regional palaeoclimates. To better understand the possible changes in the Mediterranean climate during the Holocene, a series of palaeoclimate integrations for periods spanning the last 12 000 years have been performed and their results diagnosed. These simulations use the HadSM3 global climate model, which is then dynamically downscaled to approximately 50 km using a consistent regional climate model (HadRM3). Changes in the model’s seasonal-mean surface air temperatures and precipitation are discussed at both global and regional scales, along with the physical mechanisms underlying the changes. It is shown that the global model reproduces many of the large-scale features of the mid-Holocene climate (consistent with previous studies) and that the results suggest that many areas within the Mediterranean region were wetter during winter with a stronger seasonal cycle of surface air temperatures during the early Holocene. This precipitation signal in the regional model is strongest in the in the northeast Mediterranean (near Turkey), consistent with low-level wind patterns and earlier palaeosyntheses. It is, however, suggested that further work is required to fully understand the changes in the winter circulation patterns over the Mediterranean region.
Mediterranean and north-African cultural adaptations to mid-Holocene environmental and climatic changes
Authors: Mercuri Anna Maria , Sadori Laura , Uzquiano Ollero Paloma
Published: January 2011

In Mediterranean and north-African regions, cultural trajectories have shown trends sometimes coincident with climatic changes. The mid Holocene was a period of intense changes in climate, and in environmental and cultural systems. This paper reports pollen and charcoal studies from these areas aiming at presenting how impressive cultural changes frequently coincided with critical climate oscillations. Three of the main dry events of key relevance for climatic—cultural changes were selected to discuss this topic: c. 8200 cal. yr BP, c. 6000 cal. yr BP, and c. 4200 cal. yr BP. Five examples from on-site case studies were reported: (1) Wadi Teshuinat area (Fezzan, Libya, Central Sahara); (2) Benzù cave (Ceuta mountains, Spain, NW Africa); (3) La Vaquera Cave (Central System, Spain); (4) Terramara di Montale (Po Plain, Northern Italy); (5) Arslantepe (Eastern Anatolia, Turkey). Their archaeobotanical record helps to recognise and date human presence and activity in different territories. In these examples, anthropogenic signals and comparisons with other sites could be useful to distinguish climate signal from human impact in pollen records. Charcoals are evidence of human activity in cases which are not shown by pollen. Overexploitation of thinned plant resources, including overgrazing, accelerated the evolution towards xeric conditions during drying climatic phases. Humans enforced the aridity crisis and enhanced its signal in palaeoclimatic records. Sometimes, changing exploitation strategies and movements led to the onset of new cultures. Nevertheless, the onset and decline of a culture are very different critical phases, and different agents must have been involved in their occurrence. The Bronze Age marked the environment more than the Neolithic, probably because there is a relation between improvements in knowledge, cultural changes and the evolution of complex forms of land exploitation.