bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic assessment of host‐associated microevolution in the fungus Thielaviopsis basicola
Authors: Coumans J. V. F. , Harvey J. , Backhouse D. , Poljak A. , Raftery M. J. , Nehl D. , Katz M. E. , Pereg L.
Published: October 2010

Thielaviopsis basicola, a soil‐borne pathogen with a broad host range and a cosmopolitan distribution, is emerging as a major risk to sustainable cotton production in Australia. Previous studies suggested that host specialization has occurred making T. basicola an ideal model for a comparative proteomic analysis of strains isolated from different hosts. Elucidation of the genomic diversity and investigation of the functional differences in the Australian population could provide valuable information towards disease control. In this study, isolates of T. basicola were investigated for genomic (internal transcribed spacers region), proteomic and cotton virulence level variations. Internal transcribed spacers sequence analysis revealed that isolates are grouped based on host of origin irrespective of geographical origin. At the proteome level a degree of diversity was apparent and hierarchical clustering analysis of the data also demonstrated a close correlation between the proteome and the host of origin. LC‐MS/MS analysis and identification using cross‐species similarity searching and de novo sequencing of host‐specific differentially expressed proteins and the virulence‐correlated proteome allowed successful identification of 43 spots. The majority were found to be involved in metabolism. Spots that were correlated with host and virulence differences included a hypothetical protein with a Rossman‐fold NAD(P)(+)‐binding protein domain, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, arginase and tetrahydroxynaphthalene reductase.
Haemorrhoids and quality of life
Authors: Riss S. , Weiser F. A. , Riss T. , Schwameis K. , Mittlböck M. , Stift A.
Published: October 2010

Aim  There are few studies into the quality of life of patients with haemorrhoids. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life of patients with haemorrhoids in an adult general population.

Method  Participants, who attended the Austrian nationwide healthcare programme for colorectal cancer screening at four medical institutions, were enrolled prospectively between 2008 and 2009. A colonoscopy was performed in all patients. Haemorrhoids were classified according to an international grading system and defined as symptomatic in cases with bleeding, itching, soiling or pain. Quality of life was measured by the Short Form‐12 Health Survey.

Results  Of 976 participants, 380 patients (39%) had haemorrhoids. The median physical health score was 52.6 (range 20.6–61.3) in the symptomatic and 53.2 (range 16.2–61.3) in the asymptomatic group (P = 0.7993). The median mental health score showed also no significant difference between both groups [symptomatic group, 52.8 (range 12.4–62.6); asymptomatic group, 54.8 (range 18.7–67.2); P = 0.0738].

Conclusion  Haemorrhoids, irrespective of their degree, do not influence quality of life measured by the Short Form‐12 Health Survey.
Do attitudes about unhealthy alcohol and other drug (AOD) use impact primary care professionals' readiness to implement AOD‐related preventive care?
Authors: AMARAL‐SABADINI MICHAELA B. , SAITZ RICHARD , SOUZA‐FORMIGONI MARIA LUCIA O.
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. To explore the association between primary care professionals' (PCPs) attitudes towards unhealthy alcohol and other drug (AOD) use (from risky use through dependence) and readiness to implement AOD‐related preventive care. Design and Methods. Primary care professionals from five health centres in Sao Paulo were invited to complete a questionnaire about preventive care and attitudes about people with unhealthy AOD use. Logistic regression models tested the association between professional satisfaction and readiness. Multiple Correspondence Analysis assessed associations between stigmatising attitudes and readiness. Results. Of 160 PCPs surveyed, 96 (60%) completed the questionnaire. Only 25% reported implementing unhealthy AOD use clinical prevention practices; and 53% did not feel ready to implement such practices. Greater satisfaction when working with people with AOD problems was significantly associated with readiness to implement AOD‐related preventive care. In Multiple Correspondence Analysis two groups emerged: (i) PCPs ready to work with people with unhealthy AOD use, who attributed to such patients lower levels of dangerousness, blame for their condition and need for segregation from the community (suggesting less stigmatising attitudes); and (ii) PCPs not ready to work with people with unhealthy AOD use, who attributed to them higher levels of dangerousness, blame, perceived level of patient control over their condition and segregation (suggesting more stigmatising attitudes). Discussion and Conclusions. More stigmatising attitudes towards people with unhealthy AOD use are associated with less readiness to implement unhealthy AOD‐related preventive care. Understanding these issues is likely essential to facilitating implementation of preventive care, such as screening and brief intervention, for unhealthy AOD use. [Amaral‐Sabadini MB, Saitz R, Souza‐Formigoni MLO. Do attitudes about unhealthy alcohol and other drug (AOD) use impact primary care professionals' readiness to implement AOD‐related preventive care? Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;655–661]
Alcohol screening and brief intervention in a policing context: A mixed methods feasibility study
Authors: BROWN NICOLA , NEWBURY‐BIRCH DOROTHY , MCGOVERN RUTH , PHINN ELIZABETH , KANER EILEEN
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. There is a strong association between alcohol and offending behaviour and 25% of police time involves alcohol‐related incidents. This pilot study aimed to investigate the feasibility of delivering alcohol screening and brief intervention (ASBI) to individuals arrested for offences linked to drinking behaviour. Design and Methods. Participants were detainees arrested for public order or assault offences in one North East police station in England. Following a 2 h training session, 10 Detention Officers (DOs) conducted ASBI over 3 months during routine police work. In‐depth interviews with the DOs provided further details about the acceptability of ASBI procedures. Results. Of 704 target arrestees, 229 (33%) agreed to participate in the study. Most were male (81%), white British (95%) and under the age of 30 (62%). Fifty‐nine per cent screened positively for an alcohol use disorder (50% were hazardous, 15% harmful and 35% dependent drinkers), although 23% detainees either refused or were unable to complete the screening tool. Of the 134 participants that screened positively, 98% were willing to receive brief intervention. DOs reported mixed views about ASBI; while half were positive about the process the remaining DOs expressed reservations about the appropriateness of the policing context for ASBI. Discussion and Conclusions. Despite limited training, DOs were able to deliver ASBI during routine police work. These findings provide a promising platform for future evaluative research on brief intervention outcomes in this setting. However, the issue of coercion needs to be explored more fully with both detainees and DOs.[Brown N, Newbury‐Birch D, McGovern R, Phinn E, Kaner E. Alcohol screening and brief intervention in a policing context: A mixed methods feasibility study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;647–654]
Dose–response expectancies for alcohol: Validation and implications for brief interventions
Authors: ADEY GWEN E. , MOORE SIMON C. , CHESTNUTT IVOR G.
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. Brief interventions for alcohol problems are informed by elements of behavioural motivation theories and behaviour change models. However, motivations across drinking occasions have yet to be explored. This paper addresses this need and presents initial validity statistics for a new construct, Dose Response Expectancies for Alcohol Metrics (DREAM) that can be used to investigate expectancies across the drinking session and thus inform novel interventions. Design and Methods. Twenty‐seven participants completed a test–retest reliability assessment. Hypothesised systematic relationships between the hypothetical number of drinks consumed across a drinking session and anticipated affective responses were assessed. Results. The DREAM questionnaire yielded good test–retest statistics for anticipated happiness and nausea in the hours following drinking. Consistent with hypotheses, DREAM yielded a systematic relationship between anticipated alcohol dose and affective response. Discussion and Conclusions. DREAM offers a novel means to investigate alcohol dose–response expectancies across drinking sessions and to therefore provide a theoretical platform that can be used to inform effective brief interventions for young people.[Adey GE, Moore SC, Chestnutt IG. Dose–response expectancies for alcohol: Validation and implications for brief interventions. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;662–668]
What process research tells us about brief intervention efficacy
Authors: DAEPPEN JEAN‐BERNARD , BERTHOLET NICOLAS , GAUME JACQUES
Published: October 2010

Issue. This article explores mechanisms of the efficacy of brief intervention (BI).

Approach. We conducted a BI trial at the emergency department of the Lausanne University Hospital, of whom 987 at‐risk drinkers were randomised into BI and control groups. The overall results demonstrated a general decrease in alcohol use with no differences across groups. The intention to change was explored among 367 patients who completed BI. Analyses of 97 consecutive tape‐recorded sessions explored patient and counsellor talks during BI, and their relationship to alcohol use outcome.

Key Findings. Evaluation of the articulation between counsellor behaviours and patient language revealed a robust relationship between counsellor motivational interviewing (MI) skills and patient change talk during the intervention. Further exploration suggested that communication characteristics of patients during BI predicted changes in alcohol consumption 12 months later. Moreover, despite systematic training, important differences in counsellor performance were highlighted. Counsellors who had superior MI skills achieved better outcomes overall, and maintained efficacy across all levels of patient ability to change, whereas counsellors with inferior MI skills were effective mostly with patients who had higher levels of ability to change. Finally, the descriptions of change talk trajectories within BI and their association with drinking 12 months later showed that final states differed from initial states, suggesting an impact resulting from the progression of change talk during the course of the intervention.

Implication. These findings suggest that BI should focus on the general MI attitude of counsellors who are capable of eliciting beneficial change talk from patients. [Daeppen J‐B, Bertholet N, Gaume J. What process research tells us about brief intervention efficacy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;612–616]
Conducting economic evaluations of screening and brief intervention for hazardous drinking: Methods and evidence to date for informing policy
Authors: COWELL ALEXANDER J. , BRAY JEREMY W. , MILLS MICHAEL J. , HINDE JESSE M.
Published: October 2010

Issues.Many policy review articles have concluded that alcohol screening and brief intervention (SBI) is both cost‐effective and cost‐beneficial. Yet a recent cost‐effectiveness review for the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence suggests that these conclusions may be premature.

Approach.This article offers a brief synopsis of the various types of economic analyses that may be applied to SBI, including cost analysis, cost‐effectiveness analysis, cost‐utility analysis, cost‐benefit analysis and other types of economic evaluation. A brief overview of methodological issues is provided, and examples from the SBI evaluation literature are provided.

Key Findings, Implications and Conclusions.The current evidence base is insufficient to draw firm conclusions about the cost, cost‐effectiveness or cost‐benefit of SBI and about the impact of SBI on health‐care utilisation.[Cowell AJ, Bray JW, Mills MJ, Hinde JM. Conducting economic evaluations of screening and brief intervention for hazardous drinking: Methods and evidence to date for informing policy.Drug Alcohol Rev2010;29;623–630]
Telephonic screening and brief intervention for alcohol misuse among workers contacting the employee assistance program: A feasibility study
Authors: MCPHERSON TRACY L. , GOPLERUD ERIC , DERR DENNIS , MICKENBERG JUDY , COURTEMANCHE SHERRY
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. Substantial empirical support exists for alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) in medical, but not non‐medical settings such as the workplace. Workplace settings remain underutilised for delivering evidenced‐based health services. This research aims to translate medical research into behavioural health‐care practice in a telephonic call centre acting as a point of entry into an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The goal of the study is to examine the feasibility of implementing routine telephonic alcohol SBIRT in an EAP call centre and assess whether routine SBIRT results in increased identification of workers who misuse alcohol. Design and Methods. The design was pretest–posttest, one‐group, pre‐experimental. An alcohol SBIRT program developed based on World Health Organization recommendations was implemented in one EAP call centre serving one large employer. Workers were offered screening using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) during intake, brief counselling using motivational interviewing, referral to counselling, and follow‐up. Results. At 5 months, 93% of workers contacting the EAP completed the AUDIT‐C: 40% prescreened positive and 52% went on to screen at moderate or high risk for an alcohol problem. Overall identification rate (18%) approached general US population estimates. Most agreed to follow‐up and three‐quarters set an appointment for face‐to‐face counselling. Discussion and Conclusions. Integration of routine alcohol SBIRT into EAP practice is feasible in telephonic delivery systems and increases identification and opportunity for brief motivational counselling. When SBIRT is seamlessly integrated workers are willing to answer questions about alcohol and participate in follow‐up.[McPherson TL, Goplerud E, Derr D, Mickenberg J, Courtemanche S. Telephonic screening and brief intervention for alcohol misuse among workers contacting the employee assistance program: A feasibility study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;641–646]
Is bigger better? Macrosomia and psychopathology later in life
Authors: Van Lieshout R. J. , Boyle M. H.
Published: October 2010

Evidence suggests that a curvilinear relationship may exist between birth weight and later psychopathology. Increases in the prevalence of macrosomia and of two of its risk factors (maternal pre‐pregnancy obesity and diabetes mellitus) and their amenability to intervention argue for a critical review of the association between macrosomia and mental illness. Of the nine studies in adults and six studies in youth that have examined associations between macrosomia and psychiatric disorders, seven have provided evidence suggestive of a link. Significant methodological variability and an inability to adjust for important confounders limit the findings of these studies. As a result, it remains unclear if individuals born macrosomic are at increased risk for psychopathology later in life. Future work should attempt to examine a broader range of psychiatric outcomes, use validated measures, include data on putative confounders and utilize genetically sensitive designs to assess associations between macrosomia, its precursors and later psychological and emotional functioning.
The Dilemmas of the Pious Biographer: Missionary Islam and the Oceanic Hagiography
Authors: GREEN NILE
Published: October 2010

As Islam was transformed into a missionary religion in the modern sense around the turn of the twentieth century, three questions were faced by almost all writers called on to publicise the deeds of the new breed of mobile Muslim pietists: How can a biographer turn the often tedious chores of the missionary into exciting reading? How can the humdrum tasks of founding mosques and schools be turned into the narrative trappings of a Muslim hero? And how can a modern Muslim be portrayed as a saint without recourse to “superstitious” miracle stories? The essay addresses these questions through an examination of an Urdu biography written to publicise the deeds of an Indian Muslim missionary to South Africa. In view of the revival of interest in biography, through inspecting one such missionary organisation's understanding of the life of its founder, the essay explores the necessary compromises involved in writing a life at any given moment in history.
LEVINAS AND INTERFAITH DIALOGUE
Authors: URBANO RYAN C.
Published: October 2010

For Levinas dialogue occurs when one is open to and receptive of the Other. He cautions, however, that although dialogue impedes violence, it should not be pursued unilaterally or vigorously, because this can also lead to violence. The abolition of violence, which is the goal at which dialogue aims, can instead turn violent in the face of unrestrained persuasive discourse. Vigilance and caution must be maintained if dialogue is not to lapse into hostility and aggression. It is important to respect differences and acknowledge insoluble problems in order to avoid animosity. Without recognition and respect, dialogue can become adversarial and antagonistic.
Reliability Consequences of Liberalization in the Electricity Sector: Existing Research and Remaining Questions
Authors: Antonsen Stian , Almklov Petter G. , Fenstad Jørn , Nybø Agnes
Published: October 2010

The generation, transmission and distribution of energy are among the most vital prerequisites for the functioning of modern societies. Since the early 1990s, the energy sectors of Western societies have been through a process of institutional restructuring, where large state‐owned monopolies have been divided into several independent organizations. Also, the organizations responsible for providing energy, like most other industrial organizations today, have made increasing use of outsourcing strategies. Taken together, these developments represent a significant change in the framework conditions for the energy sector. How this development affects the reliability of energy supply and the capacity for effective crisis management is an important question from both a research perspective as well as from a societal point of view. This article reviews the current literature on these issues, aiming to identify research gaps in the existing literature. Several research gaps are identified.
Geofluids and natural gas in Romania, and the 10th International Conference on Gas Geochemistry
Authors: ETIOPE G. , BACIU C.
Published: October 2010

This thematic issue of Geofluids includes 11 papers representing the three main topics discussed in the 10th edition of the International Conference on Gas Geochemistry (ICGG‐10): (i) gas in petroleum systems and seepage, (ii) gas in geothermal systems and volcanoes and (iii) gas, seismicity and geohazards. ICGG‐10 was held in 2009 in Romania, a country extraordinarily rich in surface gas manifestations, that offers innumerable opportunities for innovative studies on gas geochemistry. We briefly describe the present knowledge on gases occurring both in petroliferous sedimentary basins and geothermal areas of Romania. The 11 contributions of this special issue, which include data from eight countries, are then summarised. Based on these papers and other works presented at the ICGG‐10, we find that significant advances in analytical capabilities, data treating and interpretation have led to innovative insights into the origin, distribution and environmental impact of gases migrating to the Earth’s surface. It is increasingly clear, in particular, that gas geochemistry can be more effective for petroleum exploration, volcano‐tectonic, geodynamic and environmental studies, if multiparametric studies are performed and the data are interpreted in the geological context.
From sunlight to phytomass: on the potential efficiency of converting solar radiation to phyto‐energy
Authors: Amthor Jeffrey S.
Published: October 2010

The relationship between solar radiation capture and potential plant growth is of theoretical and practical importance. The key processes constraining the transduction of solar radiation into phyto‐energy (i.e. free energy in phytomass) were reviewed to estimate potential solar‐energy‐use efficiency. Specifically, the out‐put : input stoichiometries of photosynthesis and photorespiration in C3 and C4 systems, mobilization and translocation of photosynthate, and biosynthesis of major plant biochemical constituents were evaluated. The maintenance requirement, an area of important uncertainty, was also considered. For a hypothetical C3 grain crop with a full canopy at 30°C and 350 ppm atmospheric [CO2], theoretically potential efficiencies (based on extant plant metabolic reactions and pathways) were estimated at c. 0.041 J J−1 incident total solar radiation, and c. 0.092 J J−1 absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). At 20°C, the calculated potential efficiencies increased to 0.053 and 0.118 J J−1 (incident total radiation and absorbed PAR, respectively). Estimates for a hypothetical C4 cereal were c. 0.051 and c. 0.114 J J−1, respectively. These values, which cannot be considered as precise, are less than some previous estimates, and the reasons for the differences are considered. Field‐based data indicate that exceptional crops may attain a significant fraction of potential efficiency.

Contents

Summary
939

I.
Introduction
940

II.
Approach
940

III.
Solar radiation absorption
942

IV.
Quantum requirement for CO2 assimilation
943

V.
Respiration
946

VI.
Photosynthate mobilization and translocation
948

VII.
Maintenance
949

VIII.
Substrate requirement for growth
949

IX.
From sunlight to phyto‐energy: potential overall efficiency
953

X.
Assessment
955

Acknowledgements
955

References
955
The power of speech: orality, oaths and evidence in the British Atlantic world, 1650–1800
Authors: Ogborn Miles
Published: October 2010

Compared with the attention paid to written texts, geographers and others have neglected the spoken word in its many forms, particularly in investigations of the power relations of colonialism and imperialism. This paper argues that considering orality as a series of embodied, situated enunciations, declarations and conversations can provide a basis for historical geographies of the spoken word that engage with representation as practice. Using evidence from the domain of law within the context of Britain’s plantation colonies in the Caribbean – particularly Barbados and Jamaica – this paper argues for the significance of the oral culture of empire. This was evident in the ways in which the power of speech – through the rules on oath‐taking and evidence‐giving – was part of the making of imperial and colonial identities and relationships dividing white and non‐white, free and unfree, both within the spaces of plantation societies and in the broader British Atlantic world. The fragility of the identities and relationships made through the spoken word is also demonstrated through a series of moments when changes in the regulation of speech in courts of law were suggested and contested.
Salinomycin sensitizes cancer cells to the effects of doxorubicin and etoposide treatment by increasing DNA damage and reducing p21 protein
Authors: Kim Ju‐Hwa , Chae Minji , Kim Won Ki , Kim You‐Jin , Kang Han Sung , Kim Hyung Sik , Yoon Sungpil
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Salinomycin (Sal) has recently been shown to inhibit various cancer stem cells. Here, we investigated whether Sal could sensitize cancer cells to the effects of doxorubicin (DOX) or etoposide (ETO).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Using the Comet assay, immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis, we assessed the ability of Sal to increase DNA breakage. We performed a cell proliferation assay to determine cell viability, cellular detachment, increased pre‐G1 region, Annexin V staining and TUNEL assay to measure the ability of Sal to increase apoptosis.

KEY RESULTS

Sal increased DNA breakage and phosphorylated levels of p53 and H2AX. Sal also induced the formation of DNA foci with pH2AX and 53BP1. Furthermore, Sal increased the sensitivity of cancer cells to the apoptotic effects of DOX or ETO. We found that pH2AX, pBRCA1, p53BP1 and pChk1 levels were greatly increased after co‐treatment of Sal with DOX or ETO. The level of anti‐apoptotic p21 protein was increased by DOX or ETO but decreased by Sal, which increased proteasome activity.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

This is the first study to report that Sal increases DNA damage, and this effect plays an important role in the increased apoptosis caused by Sal. Overall, we demonstrated that the ability of Sal to sensitize cancer cells to the effects of DOX or ETO is associated with an increase in DNA damage and a decrease in anti‐apoptotic protein p21 levels. These results may contribute to the development of Sal‐based chemotherapy for cancer patients receiving DOX or ETO treatment.
CRF2mediates the increased noradrenergic activity in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and the negative state of morphine withdrawal in rats
Authors: Navarro‐Zaragoza Javier , Núñez Cristina , Ruiz‐Medina Jessica , Laorden M Luisa , Valverde Olga , Milanés M Victoria
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSERecent evidence suggests that corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) receptor signalling is involved in modulating the negative symptoms of opiate withdrawal. In this study, a series of experiments were performed to further characterize the role of CRF‐type 2 receptor (CRF2) signalling in opiate withdrawal‐induced physical signs of dependence, hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis activation, enhanced noradrenaline (NA) turnover in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) phosphorylation (activation), as well as CRF2expression in the nucleus of the solitary tract‐A2noradrenergic cell group (NTS‐A2).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHThe contribution of CRF2signalling in opiate withdrawal was assessed by i.c.v. infusion of the selective CRF2antagonist, antisauvagine‐30 (AS‐30). Rats were implanted with two morphine (or placebo) pellets. Six days later, rats were pretreated with AS‐30 or saline 10 min before naloxone and the physical signs of abstinence, the HPA axis activity, NA turnover, TH activation and CRF2expression were measured using immunoblotting, RIA, HPLC and immunohistochemistry.

KEY RESULTSRats pretreated with AS‐30 showed decreased levels of somatic signs of naloxone‐induced opiate withdrawal, but the corticosterone response was not modified. AS‐30 attenuated the increased production of the NA metabolite, 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenylglycol, as well as the enhanced NA turnover observed in morphine‐withdrawn rats. Finally, AS‐30 antagonized the TH phosphorylation at Serine40 induced by morphine withdrawal.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSThese results suggest that physical signs of opiate withdrawal, TH activation and stimulation of noradrenergic pathways innervating the PVN are modulated by CRF2signalling. Furthermore, they indicate a marginal role for the HPA axis in CRF2‐mediation of opiate withdrawal.
Enhancing Dementia Care: A Primary Care–Based Memory Clinic
Authors: Lee Linda , Hillier Loretta M. , Stolee Paul , Heckman George , Gagnon Micheline , McAiney Carrie A. , Harvey David
Published: October 2010

Memory clinics have been promoted as opportunities for improving dementia diagnosis and care. This article describes the implementation of an interdisciplinary memory clinic within primary care in Ontario, Canada, that aims to provide timely access to comprehensive assessment and care and to improve referring physicians' knowledge of the management of dementia through collaborative care and practice‐based mentorship. Between July 2006 and September 2009, 246 initial and follow‐up assessments were conducted with 151 patients, a high proportion of whom received a new diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (44.4%) or dementia (19.2%). A trial of cholinesterase inhibitors was recommended for almost all patients newly diagnosed with dementia. Management interventions and recommendations included social worker outreach, long‐term care planning, home safety or driving assessments, referral to community resources, and periodic follow‐up and monitoring. A small proportion of patients (7.8%) were referred to a specialist. Surveyed patients and caregivers were very satisfied with their visit to the clinic. A chart audit conducted by two independent geriatricians indicated agreement with diagnosis and intervention, particularly related to use of specialists. The results indicate that memory clinics within primary care settings can support capacity building to ensure quality assessment and management of dementia at a primary care level.
Clearance of maternal isohemagglutinins from infant circulation (CME)
Authors: Shaikh Salima , Sloan Steven R.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: Non–group O neonates require testing for passively acquired maternal isohemagglutinins for them to receive type‐specific red blood cells (RBCs), according to the latest edition of the AABB Standards. A neonate is defined as an infant up to 4 months old in the AABB Standards, and many blood banks tend to stop testing for maternal anti‐A and/or anti‐B after 4 months of age. In lieu of such testing, group O RBCs are usually transfused to infants up to 4 months of age. This practice can limit the overall supply of group O RBCs available to other patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective study of 1309 infants up to 4 months of age was performed, to assess the age by which passively acquired maternal isohemagglutinins are cleared from infant circulation. Detection of isohemagglutinins was performed by mixing sample sera and observing agglutination, followed by incubation and addition of anti‐immunoglobulin anti‐human globulin (antiglobulin test phase).

RESULTS: The data show that 6.4% of infants up to 1 month of age had maternal isohemagglutinins, while none of the infants ranging from 2 to 4 months of age had maternal isohemagglutinins in their sera.

CONCLUSIONS: Maternal isohemagglutinins are rare after the first month of life and patients who are at least 2 months old can safely receive ABO type–compatible RBC units without testing for passively acquired maternal anti‐A and/or anti‐B.
Experience with routine total nonfasting blood cholesterol screening of volunteer blood and component donors
Authors: Eason Stephen , Goudar Shankar , Centilli Jeff , Sayers Merlyn
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: There is an increasing number of blood programs giving donors information about health risks for cardiovascular disease based on a total nonfasting cholesterol level measured at donation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Experience with screening 187,714 individual donors for total nonfasting cholesterol was reviewed and results were compared with those for a representative sample of United States adults as published in National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Donors were invited to retrieve their results and were tracked as to whether they used this service or not.

RESULTS: By comparison with the national surveys, more blood donors have normal total nonfasting cholesterols and fewer have borderline high or high values as defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel. These observations hold for both males and females across all age ranges from 20 to older than 75 years. Only a minority of donors retrieve their results.

CONCLUSIONS: The blood donor setting can be expanded, by inclusion of total nonfasting cholesterol level, to include screening for cardiovascular disease risk. When compared with the general adult population, donors represent a group at less risk for heart disease.
Domestic Violence, Poverty, and Social Services: Does Location Matter?*
Authors: Hetling Andrea , Zhang Haiyan
Published: October 2010

Objective. This study investigates whether or not domestic violence agencies are located in areas of need. Recent research indicates that community economic disadvantage is a risk factor for intimate partner violence, but related questions regarding the geographic location of social service agencies have not been investigated.

Methods. Using Connecticut as a case study, we analyze the relationship of agency location and police‐reported domestic violence incidents and assaults using OLS regression and correcting for spatial autocorrelation.

Results. The presence of an agency within a town has no relationship with the rates of domestic violence. However, regional patterns are evident.

Conclusion. Findings indicate that programs are not geographically mismatched with need, but neither are programs located in towns with higher rates of incidents or assaults. Future research and planning efforts should consider the geographic location of agencies.
Economic Context and Americans' Perceptions of Income Inequality*
Authors: Xu Ping , Garand James C.
Published: October 2010

Objectives. The increase in income inequality in the United States over the past three decades has been well documented, though Americans differ in their perceptions of rising inequality. In this article we investigate the degree to which context shapes individuals' perceptions of rising income inequality in the United States.

Methods. Using objective data on state‐level income inequality and survey data from the 2004 American National Election Study (ANES), we estimate a series of ordered logit models depicting individuals' perceptions of rising income inequality as a function of state income inequality and various control variables.

Results. We find that individuals residing in states with high income inequality are more likely than other individuals to perceive large increases in national income inequality over the past 20 years. We also consider possible interaction effects for state income inequality with political knowledge and family income, but our evidence suggests that such effects are limited to family income. We find that individuals from lower income strata are more likely to translate state income inequality into inequality perceptions than those with higher incomes.

Conclusion. State inequality context significantly shapes individuals' perceptions of rising income inequality, particularly among those with lower incomes.
Reassessing the Impact of Hispanic Stereotypes on White Americans' Immigration Preferences*
Authors: Lu Lingyu , Nicholson‐Crotty Sean
Published: October 2010

Objectives. There is disagreement in the literature on immigration attitudes regarding the relative importance of ethnic stereotypes and more general cultural and economic concerns about increasing immigration in the formation of those attitudes. We argue that the impact of stereotypes relative to these other factors may have been underestimated for a variety of reasons.

Methods. We test the impact of stereotypes on immigration preferences in data from the Multi‐Ethnic Module of the 2000 General Social Survey. Because the dependent variables analyzed herein are ordinal, we estimate ordered logistic regressions that correct for diagnosed hetereoskedacticity.

Results. Statistical analyses confirm that negative stereotypes are a significantly larger predictor of ethnicity‐specific immigration preferences relative to general attitudes about immigration. Intervening variables analyses also suggest that the impact of stereotypes has been underestimated relative to cultural and economic anxieties because these variables significantly mediate its observed impact.

Conclusions. The results suggest that ethnic stereotypes are significantly more important in determining immigration preferences among Americans than has been reported in previous research.
Explaining Anti‐Kurdish Beliefs in Turkey: Group Competition, Identity, and Globalization*
Authors: Dixon Jeffrey C. , Ergin Murat
Published: October 2010

Objective. In the wake of Turkey's EU candidacy and the U.S.‐led war in Iraq, Turkey's Kurdish question has drawn international attention. Due to previous data limitations, ours is the first article to analyze what explains anti‐Kurdish beliefs in Turkey using nationally representative survey data.

Methods. Through descriptive analyses and partial proportional odds models of the Pew Global Attitudes Survey (2002), we examine the extent and sources of these beliefs.

Results. We find high levels of anti‐Kurdish beliefs in Turkey, but little evidence of group competition/material interests shaping these beliefs; rather, nationalism, secularism, and, somewhat surprisingly, favorable evaluations of globalization better explain anti‐Kurdish beliefs.

Conclusion. Although broad processes of social‐dominance orientation and authoritarianism may be factors working in the background, anti‐Kurdish beliefs are better explained by the peculiar case of modernization in Turkey and these anti‐Kurdish beliefs may be different from negative beliefs about other minorities.
Practice Standards for Transcranial Doppler (TCD) Ultrasound. Part II. Clinical Indications and Expected Outcomes
Authors: Alexandrov Andrei V. , Sloan Michael A. , Tegeler Charles H. , Newell David N. , Lumsden Alan , Garami Zsolt , Levy Christopher R. , Wong Lawrence K.S. , Douville Colleen , Kaps Manfred , Tsivgoulis Georgios ,   for the American Society of Neuroimaging Practice Guidelines Committee
Published: October 2010

INTRODUCTION

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is a physiological ultrasound test with established safety and efficacy. Although imaging devices may be used to depict intracranial flow superimposed on structural visualization, the end‐result provided by imaging duplex or nonimaging TCD is sampling physiological flow variables through the spectral waveform assessment.

SUMMARY OF RESULTS

Clinical indications considered by this multidisciplinary panel of experts as established are: sickle cell disease, cerebral ischemia, detection of right‐to‐left shunts (RLS), subarachnoid hemorrhage, brain death, and periprocedural or surgical monitoring. The following TCD‐procedures are performed in routine in‐ and outpatient clinical practice: complete or partial TCD‐examination to detect normal, stenosed, or occluded intracranial vessels, collaterals to locate an arterial obstruction and refine carotid‐duplex or noninvasive angiographic findings; vasomotor reactivity testing to identify high‐risk patients for first‐ever or recurrent stroke; emboli detection to detect, localize, and quantify cerebral embolization in real time; RLS‐detection in patients with suspected paradoxical embolism or those considered for shunt closure; monitoring of thrombolysis to facilitate recanalization and detect reocclusion; monitoring of endovascular stenting, carotid endarterectomy, and cardiac surgery to detect perioperative embolism, thrombosis, hypo‐ and hyperperfusion.

CONCLUSION

By defining the scope of practice, these standards will assist referring and reporting physicians and third parties involved in the process of requesting, evaluating, and acting upon TCD results.
Changes in motor unit characteristics after eccentric elbow flexor exercise
Authors: Piitulainen H. , Holobar A. , Avela J.
Published: October 2010

Morphological evidence suggests that fast‐twitch fibers are prone to disruption of their membrane structures by eccentric exercise. However, it is unclear how this is reflected in the discharge rate and action potential propagation of individual motor units, especially at high contraction levels. High‐density surface electromyograms were recorded from biceps brachii muscle and decomposed to individual motor unit action potentials at isometric contraction levels between 10% and 75% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) before intermittent maximal elbow flexor eccentric exercise, and two hours (2H), two days (2D) and four days (4D) post‐exercise. Maximal voluntary force decreased by 21.3±5.6% 2H and by 12.6±11.1% 2D post‐exercise. Motor unit discharge rate increased and mean muscle fiber conduction velocity decreased, at the highest isometric contraction levels only (50% and 75% of MVC) at 2H post‐exercise. These results indicate that eccentric exercise can disturb the function of motor units active at high contraction levels in the early stages after exercise, which seems to be compensated by the central nervous system with an increase in neural drive during submaximal isometric contractions.
Proteomic analysis of rat skeletal muscle submitted to one bout of incremental exercise
Authors: Gandra P. G. , Valente R. H. , Perales J. , Pacheco A. G. , Macedo D. V.
Published: October 2010

Exercise can alter gene transcriptional and protein translational rates leading to changes in protein abundance toward adaptation to exercise. We investigated the alterations in protein abundance in skeletal muscle after one bout of an exhaustive exercise through proteomic analysis. Gastrocnemius muscles were sampled from non‐exercised control rats and from rats exercised on a treadmill with incremental increases in speed until exhaustion (approximately 30 min). Rats were sacrificed 3 and 24 h after exercise cessation. Two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis was performed and spots with a significant alteration in relative volume were identified by mass spectrometry. Six spots presented statistically significant altered abundances after exercise. The spots identified as the metabolic related proteins triosephosphate isomerase 1, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, the β subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 were all more abundant after exercise. One spot identified as heat shock cognate 70 was also more abundant after exercise. One spot demonstrated a decreased abundance after exercise and was identified as α‐actin. These results suggest that a single session of exhaustive incremental exercise in untrained muscle can alter thin filaments synthesis/degradation rate and enhance cytosolic and mitochondrial proteins synthesis. The identified proteins may be important to a general preconditioning of skeletal muscle for subsequent exercise sessions.
X‐linked agammaglobulinemia complicated with endobronchial tuberculosis
Authors: Kawakami Chihiro , Inoue Akiko , Takitani Kimitaka , Kanegane Hirokazu , Miyawaki Toshio , Tamai Hiroshi
Published: October 2010

Aim:  We report a case of X‐linked agammaglobulinemia complicated with endobronchial tuberculosis.

Methods:  We observed the patient’s clinical course and analysed his data retrospectively.

Results: Interestingly, the T‐cell proliferation activity in this patient was intact, and the CD4‐positive T cells produced interferon gamma. However, the result of the quantiferon alpha‐2b test was negative.

Conclusion:  The findings of this case suggest that the quantiferon alpha‐2b test may not be diagnostic for tuberculosis not only in patients with T‐cell disorders but also in cases with B‐cell deficiencies such as X‐linked agammaglobulinemia.
The Role of Single Immediate Loading Implant in Long Class IV Kennedy Mandibular Partial Denture
Authors: Mohamed Gehan F. , El Sawy Amal A.
Published: October 2010

Background: The treatment of long‐span Kennedy class IV considers a prosthodontic challenge. This study evaluated the integrity of principle abutments in long Kennedy class IV clinically and radiographically, when rehabilitated with conventional metallic partial denture as a control group and mandibular partial overdentures supported with single immediately loaded implant in symphyseal as a study group.

Material and Methods: Twelve male patients were divided randomly allotted into two equal groups. First group patients received removable metallic partial denture, whereas in the second group, patients received partial overdentures supported with single immediately loaded implant in symphyseal region. The partial dentures design in both groups was the same. Long‐cone paralleling technique and transmission densitometer were used at the time of denture insertion, 3, 6, and 12 months. Gingival index, bone loss, and optical density were measured for principle abutments during the follow‐up.

Results: A significant reduction in bone loss and density were detected in group II comparing with group I. Gingival index had no significant change (p‐value < 0.05).

Conclusion: A single symphyseal implant in long span class IV Kennedy can play a pivotal role to improve the integrity of the principle abutments and alveolar bone support.
A Collagenated Porcine Bone Substitute for Augmentation at Neoss Implant Sites: A Prospective 1‐Year Multicenter Case Series Study with Histology
Authors: Pagliani Luca , Andersson Peter , Lanza Massimiliano , Nappo Antonio , Verrocchi Damiano , Volpe Stefano , Sennerby Lars
Published: October 2010

Background: The presence of localized defects and/or small amounts of bone below the maxillary sinus is a common finding, which may compromise implant placement. There is therefore a need for predictable techniques for bone augmentation in such situations.

Purpose: The study aims to clinically and histologically evaluate a porcine bone (PB) substitute used for augmentation of the alveolar crest or the maxillary sinus floor prior to or in conjunction with implant placement.

Materials and Methods: Nineteen patients were treated with a porcine bone substitute and barrier membranes (OsteoBiol, Tecnoss Dental, Turin, Italy) for lateral bone augmentation (Group 1a) and healing of bone defects (Group 1b) or for augmentation of the maxillary sinus floor using either a replaceable (Group 2a) or an infractured bone window (Group 2b). A total of 34 implants (Neoss Ltd., Harrogate, UK) were placed in conjunction or 5 to 7 months after the procedure. Implants were followed with implant stability measurements at placement and abutment connection, and with intraoral radiographs at abutment connection and after at least 1 year of loading. A biopsy for histology and morphometry was taken at the first reentry operation.

Results: All but one of the procedures was successful (94.7%) as one maxillary sinus procedure (Group 2a) resulted in insufficient bone for implant placement. One of the 34 implants failed, giving an implant survival rate of 97.1% after 1 year. Implant stability measurements showed a mean stability of 71.9 ± 7.7 implant stability quotient (ISQ) at placement, which significantly increased to 75.3 ± 6.8 ISQ at abutment connection (p = .03). The average bone loss was 0.5 ± 0.7 mm during 1 year.

Histology revealed new bone formation at the PB surface, which formed bridges between particles and between particles and preexisting bone. The presence of scalloped resorption lacunae and new osteons inside the particles indicated ongoing resorption/remodeling of the particles. The histomorphometric analyses showed that the total specimen area consisted of, in average, 56.5 ± 15.7% mineralized tissue of which 24.8 ± 13.9% of the total area was PB particles.

Conclusion: This study showed good clinical results when using a PB substitute and barrier membranes for augmentation of the alveolar crest and maxillary sinus. Histology revealed bone condensation properties and indicated that the material can be resorbed with time.