bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Allocation in Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Ardente Fulvio , Cellura Maurizio
Published: April 2012

This article examines methods for analyzing allocation in life cycle assessment (LCA); it focuses on comparisons of economic allocation with other feasible alternatives. The International Organization for Standardization's (ISO) guideline 14044 indicates that economic allocation should only be used as a last resort, when other methods are not suitable. However, the LCA literature reports several examples of the use of economic allocation. This is due partly to its simplicity and partly to its ability to illustrate the properties of complex systems. Sometimes a price summarizes complex attributes of product or service quality that cannot be easily measured by physical criteria. On the other hand, economic allocation does have limitations arising, for example, from the variability of prices and the low correlation between prices and physical flows. This article presents the state of the debate on the topic and some hypothetical examples for illustration. A general conclusion is that it is not possible to determine one “best” allocation method. The allocation procedure has to be selected on a case‐by‐case basis and no single approach is suitable for every situation. Despite its limitations, economic allocation has certain qualities that make it flexible and potentially suitable for different contexts. In some situations, economic allocation should not be the last methodological resort. The option of economic allocation should be considered, for example, whenever the prices of coproducts and coservices differ widely.
Energy Intensities and Carbon Dioxide Emissions in a Social Accounting Matrix Model of the Andalusian Economy
Authors: Cardenete M. Alejandro , Fuentes‐Saguar Patricia D. , Polo Clemente
Published: April 2012

The aim of this article is to calculate energy intensity and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in Andalusia, the largest and most populated region of Spain. Energy intensities for five energy commodities used in production activities are calculated using a social accounting matrix (SAM) model with three alternative scenarios, each utilizing differing closure rules. More interestingly, by using 2005 data and updating the values of exogenous accounts, the article also provides estimates of CO2 emissions ten years out from the 1995 base year. Finally, counterfactual experiments are performed to quantify the overall reduction in direct energy coefficients that would have made it possible to maintain constant production‐sector emissions from 1995 to 2005. The results indicate that there is a strong interdependence among energy sectors and the most intensive energy users; they also indicate the importance of induced effects when factor accounts and private consumption are endogenous. The estimates obtained concerning CO2 emissions are close to official estimates, both from 1995 and 2005. The counterfactual experiments indicate that a 26.5% cut in the size of direct energy requirements would have made it possible to maintain constant emissions. They also indicate that efforts to curtail emissions should be focused on improving efficiency in coal extraction and combustion and oil refining.
Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Nuclear Electricity Generation
Authors: Warner Ethan S. , Heath Garvin A.
Published: April 2012

A systematic review and harmonization of life cycle assessment (LCA) literature of nuclear electricity generation technologies was performed to determine causes of and, where possible, reduce variability in estimates of life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to clarify the state of knowledge and inform decision making. LCA literature indicates that life cycle GHG emissions from nuclear power are a fraction of traditional fossil sources, but the conditions and assumptions under which nuclear power are deployed can have a significant impact on the magnitude of life cycle GHG emissions relative to renewable technologies.

Screening 274 references yielded 27 that reported 99 independent estimates of life cycle GHG emissions from light water reactors (LWRs). The published median, interquartile range (IQR), and range for the pool of LWR life cycle GHG emission estimates were 13, 23, and 220 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilowatt‐hour (g CO2‐eq/kWh), respectively. After harmonizing methods to use consistent gross system boundaries and values for several important system parameters, the same statistics were 12, 17, and 110 g CO2‐eq/kWh, respectively. Harmonization (especially of performance characteristics) clarifies the estimation of central tendency and variability.

To explain the remaining variability, several additional, highly influential consequential factors were examined using other methods. These factors included the primary source energy mix, uranium ore grade, and the selected LCA method. For example, a scenario analysis of future global nuclear development examined the effects of a decreasing global uranium market‐average ore grade on life cycle GHG emissions. Depending on conditions, median life cycle GHG emissions could be 9 to 110 g CO2‐eq/kWh by 2050.
Anchoring Effects and Participant Numbers: Evidence from a Public Good Game
Authors: Luccasen R. Andrew
Published: April 2012

Objective

Irrelevant information, such as one's Social Security number, has been shown to influence decisions in experiments. The objective of this article is to investigate this anchoring effect with respect to the randomly assigned participant number in an economic experiment.

Methods

The game is a public good contribution game. In one session, participants write their participant number on their decision sheet while this number is printed on the decision sheet in the remaining sessions. Anchoring with respect to participant number suggests that those with higher participant numbers contribute more than those with low participant numbers.

Results

I find no evidence of anchoring. In each session, the mean contribution is not significantly different across different partitioning of the subjects according to participant numbers.

Conclusions

Social scientists using experimental methods in research are unlikely to bias results by assigning participant numbers when these numbers coincide with the decision space of the games played.
A Dialogue with William J. Baumol: Insights on Entrepreneurship Theory and Education
Authors: Griffiths Mark , Kickul Jill , Bacq Sophie , Terjesen Siri
Published: April 2012

This interview and commentary addresses key issues in entrepreneurship by highlighting William Baumol's contributions and his personal insights. We emphasize the multilevel approach that entrepreneurship research should adopt, and that assumptions underlying the research are too often unstated, rendering comparison between studies difficult. Baumol argues for more experimentation and government support of research on ways to improve the teaching of innovative entrepreneurship, since there is little evidence on what works and what does not. The discussion stresses that entrepreneurship is a multifaceted phenomenon that varies depending on context, the level of innovation, and its impact on society. Consequently, entrepreneurship research requires the development of an encompassing paradigm, appropriate educational methods, and study of the institutions that provide the most desirable incentives.
Catheter Ablation Utilizing Remote Magnetic Navigation: A Review of Applications and Outcomes
Authors: BRADFIELD JASON , TUNG RODERICK , MANDAPATI RAVI , BOYLE NOEL G. , SHIVKUMAR KALYANAM
Published: April 2012

The utilization of the NIOBE™ magnetic navigation system (MNS, Stereotaxis, St. Louis, MO, USA) has increased significantly since the first published report in 2002. There has been much enthusiasm for this technology as a means to reduce radiation exposure to the patient and physician alike, and potentially decrease risks associated with catheter manipulation by less experienced operators. However, there are limited data regarding the acute, intermediate, and long‐term results and procedural characteristics from ablation procedures utilizing this system. We present a review of the outcomes and procedural data available to date.

(PACE 2012; 35:1021–1034)
Worldwide Experience with the Robotic Navigation System in Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Methodology, Efficacy and Safety
Authors: BAI RONG , DI BIASE LUIGI , VALDERRABANO MIGUEL , LORGAT FAIZEL , MLCOCHOVA HANKA , TILZ ROLAND , MEYERFELDT UDO , HRANITZKY PATRICK M. , WAZNI OUSSAMA , KANAGARATNAM PRAPA , DOSHI RAHUL N. , GIBSON DOUGLAS , PISAPIA ANDRÉ , MOHANTY PRASANT , SALIBA WALID , OUYANG FEIFAN , KAUTZNER JOSEF , GALLINGHOUSE G. JOSEPH , NATALE ANDREA
Published: April 2012

Worldwide Survey on Robotic AF Ablation. Introduction: The Hansen Robotic system has been utilized in ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, because of the lack of tactile feedback and the rigidity of the robotic sheath, this approach could result in higher risk of complications. This worldwide survey reports a multicenter experience on the methodology, efficacy, and safety of the Hansen system in AF ablations.

Methods and Results: A questionnaire addressing questions on patient's demographics, procedural parameters, ablation success rate and safety information was sent to all centers where more than 50 robotic AF ablation cases have been performed. From June 2007 to December 2009, 1,728 procedures were performed at 12 centers utilizing the Hansen robotic navigation technology. The overall complication rate was 4.7% and the success rate was 67.1% after 18 ± 4 months of follow‐up. In 5 low volume centers there appeared to be a learning curve of about 50 cases (complication rate 11.2% for the first 50 cases vs 3.7% for the 51–100 cases; P = 0.044) and a trend showing a decrease of complication rate with increasing case volume. However, in the remaining 7 centers no learning curve was present and the complication rate was stable over time (3.7% for the first 50 cases vs 3.6% for the 51st case thereafter; P = 0.942).

Conclusion: The Hansen robotic system can be used for AF ablation safely. In low volume centers, there appeared to be a learning curve of the first 50 cases after which the complication rate decreased. With a higher case volume, the success rate increased. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 820‐826, August 2012)
Intraobserver Reliability of Two‐Dimensional Ultrasound Derived Strain Imaging in the Assessment of the Left Ventricle, Right Ventricle, and Left Atrium of Healthy Human Hearts
Authors: Oxborough David , George Keith , Birch Karen M.
Published: April 2012

Aims: To determine the intraobserver reproducibility of peak and temporal values for myocardial strain (ɛ) and strain rate (SR) using a speckle tracking technique in the left ventricle (LV), right ventricle (RV), and left atrium (LA). Methods and Results: Myocardial speckle tracking echocardiograms of the LV, RV, and LA were obtained on 20 healthy adults to provide indices of longitudinal, radial, circumferential ɛ, and SR as well as LV rotation and twist. Each participant had two separate acquisitions approximately 30 minutes apart. No systematic bias was present in ɛ data. LV ɛ across all planes provided “good” to “very good” intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values (0.714–0.807), however radial ɛ was inferior in terms of coefficients of variation (CoV) (19%). SR data were more variable than ɛ with LV radial SR performing least favorably. RV and LA ɛ demonstrated excellent reproducibility (ICCs of 0.834, 0.959, and CoVs of 7% and 6%, respectively). RV and LA SR were again more variable but generally acceptable ICC > 0.6 and CoV < 15%. Peak basal and apical rotation demonstrated quite high variability while derived torsion had low variability and excellent agreement (ICC = 0.940, CoV = 10%). Time‐to‐peak values demonstrated acceptable agreement with the exception of systolic SR from all chambers. Conclusion: Good reproducibility was obtained for peak ɛ indices although radial ɛ performs less favorably. Intraobserver variation of peak ɛ appears superior to values obtained for peak SR. Time‐to‐peak values demonstrate very good intraobserver reproducibility across all planes of contraction with exception of (time‐to‐peak) systolic strain rate (SRS).
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
Authors: FROEHLICH EDWINA H.
Published: April 2012

(Mrs. John F.)
Birth Control and a New Birth of Freedom
Authors: Pilpel Harriet F.
Published: April 2012

The author analyzes Griswold v. Connecticut and other recent developments in the birth control movement and explains their significance for constitutional theory. The Griswold case raised the principle of voluntary family planning to the status of a constitutional right. It also recognized the standing of those in the helping professions to assert the rights of their patients and clients. The Court's recognition of a right of privacy and restoration of meaning to the ninth and tenth amendments may be a protection against the increasing threat of a “big brother” society. Recent administrative and judicial decisions emasculating the Comstock laws demonstrate the importance of constitutional checks and balances. The ultimate question posed by the Griswold case is whether it will be recognized that the government has an affirmative obligation to make the exercise of constitutional rights possible.
Nurses’ Practice Environments, Error Interception Practices, and Inpatient Medication Errors
Authors: Flynn Linda , Liang Yulan , Dickson Geri L. , Xie Minge , Suh Dong‐Churl
Published: April 2012

Purpose: Medication errors remain a threat to patient safety. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the relationships among characteristics of the nursing practice environment, nurse staffing levels, nurses’ error interception practices, and rates of nonintercepted medication errors in acute care hospitals.

Design: This study, using a nonexperimental design, was conducted in a sample of 82 medical‐surgical units recruited from 14 U.S. acute care hospitals. Registered nurses (RNs) on the 82 units were surveyed, producing a sample of 686 staff nurses.

Methods: Data collected for the 8‐month study period included the number of medication errors per 1,000 patient days and the number of RN hours per patient day. Nurse survey data included the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index as a measure of environmental characteristics; a metric of nurses’ interception practices was developed for the study. All survey measures were aggregated to the unit level prior to analysis with hierarchical linear modeling.

Findings: A supportive practice environment was positively associated with error interception practices among nurses in the sample of medical‐surgical units. Importantly, nurses’ interception practices were inversely associated with medication error rates.

Conclusions: A supportive practice environment enhances nurses’ error interception practices. These interception practices play a role in reducing medication errors.

Clinical Relevance: When supported by their practice environments, nurses employ practices that can assist in interrupting medication errors before they reach the patients.
The Interaction of Leukocytes and Adhesion Molecules in Mesenteric Microvessel Endothelial Cells after Internal Capsule Hemorrhage
Authors: JIN XUE‐LONG , LI XIAO‐HUI , ZHANG LI‐MIN , ZHAO JIE
Published: April 2012

Please cite this paper as: Jin X‐L, Li X‐H, Zhang L‐M, Zhao J. The interaction of leukocytes and adhesion molecules in mesenteric microvessel endothelial cells after internal capsule hemorrhage. Microcirculation 19: 539–546, 2012.

Objective:  To explore the correlation between hemorheological variations and the expression of cell adhesion molecules in mesenteric microvessel endothelial cells after internal capsule hemorrhage.

Methods:  We established an internal capsule hemorrhage model. Then leukocyte–endothelium interaction was observed and hemorheological variations in mesenteric microvessels were evaluated in the following aspects: blood flow volume, diameter of microvessels, blood flow rate, and shear rate. We also measured the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule‐l and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) in mesenteric microvessel endothelial cells with immunohistochemistry stain.

Results:  Leukocyte–endothelium interaction intensified after internal capsule hemorrhage. Besides, blood flow volume and velocity decreased, diameter narrowed, and shear rate reduced. Immunohistochemical staining of vascular cell adhesion molecule‐l and ICAM‐1in mesenteric microvessel endothelial cells was stronger.

Conclusions:  VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 expression in mesenteric microvessels increased as a result of decreased wall shear stress in stress state following internal capsule hemorrhage, and then further shear stress change from interaction of enhanced production of CAMs and leukocytes created a vicious cycle of leukocytes margination, adhesion, and transmigration that could ultimately result in stress gastrointestinal ulcer.
Elderly Sexual Offenders: Two Unusual Cases*
Authors: Carabellese Felice , Candelli Chiara , Vinci Francesco , Tamma Manuela , Catanesi Roberto
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The aim of this case report is to describe two cases of sexual abuse by elderly subjects for which the Judge commissioned an expert psychiatric–forensic opinion. The elderly are generally believed to commit nonviolent crimes, whereas the two cases we observed feature forcible rape committed by elderly offenders, who showed no form of mental disease and had rationally planned their offense. They had never previously committed similar acts and had no history of homosexuality; both had been married for many years before the death of their wives and had adult children. Finally, no previous episodes of rape emerged in their personal histories during interrogations. The sociocultural context in which the crimes were committed was identical and arouses interest as regards both the method employed and how the crimes were discovered. The legal authorities then commissioned accurate investigations including medicolegal and psychiatric–forensic evaluations of the offenders and their victims.
Characterization of Microorganisms Isolated from Counterfeit Toothpaste
Authors: Brzezinski Jennifer L. , Craft David L.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The appearance of potentially counterfeit “Colgate” toothpaste on the American market prompted a criminal investigation by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including the collection of c. 60,000 tubes of toothpaste from retail outlets and product distributors. Microbiological testing was performed based on the FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual, which determined the presence and number of bacteria present in the products. Bacteria were isolated from each “Colgate” variety; up to 2 × 106 cfu/g were isolated from some of the product units. Using conventional microscopic and biochemical bacterial identification methods, most of the bacteria isolated from these samples were Gram‐negative rods of several genera, including Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Klebsiella. Most of the organisms isolated represent opportunistic pathogens, and therefore, counterfeit “Colgate” toothpaste containing high levels of bacteria pose a human health hazard.
Raspberry viruses manipulate the behaviour of their insect vectors
Authors: McMenemy Lindsay S. , Hartley Sue E. , MacFarlane Stuart A. , Karley Alison J. , Shepherd Tom , Johnson Scott N.
Published: April 2012

Many insect herbivores and plant pathogens influence each other via plant‐mediated mechanisms. Although there is speculation that these interactions may be important in structuring terrestrial food webs, few studies have empirically demonstrated the mechanisms by which pathogens manipulate the behaviour of their insect vectors. We investigated how infection of red raspberry, Rubus idaeus L. (Rosaceae), with two viral pathogens, black raspberry necrosis virus (BRNV) and raspberry leaf mottle virus (RLMV), affected the behaviour of their vector, the large raspberry aphid, Amphorophora idaei Börner (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Macrosiphini). As semi‐persistently transmitted viruses, comparatively little is known about how such viruses affect vector biology. We also examined the effect of infection on plant volatile emissions and amino acid content, which could drive changes in aphid behaviour and performance. Virus‐infected plants were initially more attractive to the aphid and the insects remained on infected plants for 30 min, but were found equally on uninfected plants 12 h after inoculation. Twenty‐seven volatile compounds were identified. Two green leaf volatiles were emitted at higher concentrations by infected plants: (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate and 2‐hexenal. In dose‐response assays, (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate was attractive to the aphid at concentrations of 50 ng ml−1. When reared on infected plants, aphids took more than 3 days longer to reach adulthood compared with those on uninfected plants, although the number of offspring remained the same. Soluble amino acid (essential and non‐essential) concentrations in raspberry leaves increased more than two‐fold with virus infection. Amino acid composition was dominated by glutamate, accounting for 64 and 77% of the total in uninfected and infected leaves, respectively. Excessive glutamate may have underpinned the negative effects of viral infection on aphid performance. These results demonstrate the capacity of viruses to alter their host plant to manipulate vector behaviour, which may have evolved to be consistent with the transmission requirements of the virus.
Linguistic production and syntactic comprehension in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Perlini C. , Marini A. , Garzitto M. , Isola M. , Cerruti S. , Marinelli V. , Rambaldelli G. , Ferro A. , Tomelleri L. , Dusi N. , Bellani M. , Tansella M. , Fabbro F. , Brambilla P.
Published: April 2012

Perlini C, Marini A, Garzitto M, Isola M, Cerruti S, Marinelli V, Rambaldelli G, Ferro A, Tomelleri L, Dusi N, Bellani M, Tansella M, Fabbro F, Brambilla P. Linguistic production and syntactic comprehension in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Objective:  To explore linguistic abilities in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Specifically, the aims of this study were to: i) investigate microlinguistic (lexicon, morphology, syntax) and macrolinguistic (discourse coherence, pragmatics) dimensions of speech production and ii) evaluate syntactic comprehension skills in both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Method:  Linguistic performance of 30 Italian‐speaking patients with schizophrenia, 30 participants with bipolar disorder and 30 healthy controls comparable for age and educational level has been assessed using a story‐telling task and a computer‐based test of syntactic comprehension.

Results:  In narrative production, compared with healthy participants, those with schizophrenia had slight problems in speech rate and deficits at both local and global discourse coherence, whereas patients with bipolar disorder showed reduced mean length of utterance. As regards syntactic comprehension, both groups of patients collected more grammatical errors than controls, but they differed with regard to the number and kind of grammatical construction they missed.

Conclusion:  Linguistic deficits have been detected in both groups of patients, being, however, more severe and generalized in schizophrenia than in bipolar disorder. Such results help us in improving our understanding of the potential psychopathological overlapping between these disorders.
Double‐hit BCL2/MYC translocations in a consecutive cohort of patients with large B‐cell lymphoma – a single centre's experience
Authors: Pedersen Mette Ø. , Gang Anne O. , Poulsen Tim S. , Knudsen Helle , Lauritzen Anne F. , Nielsen Signe L. , Gang Uffe O. , Nørgaard Peter
Published: April 2012

Concurrent BCL2 and MYC translocations, so called double hit (DH), are a rare finding in large B‐cell lymphoma (LBCL). Based on data from retrospective series, DH has been correlated with aggressive clinical behaviour and poor outcome. We conducted a consecutive study of DH incidence and correlation with pathologic and clinical characteristics, including response to Rituximab‐containing chemotherapy and survival, in an unselected cohort of patients with LBCL. Translocations involving BCL2 and MYC loci were examined with fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) in 157 patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) or B‐cell lymphoma, unclassifiable, with features intermediate between diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma (BCLU). The incidence of DH was 11% in the total cohort, 7% of primary LBCL and 21% of transformed LBCL. DH lymphomas were all GCB immunophenotype and were more often BCLU. No clinical characteristics were correlated with the presence of DH, which also had no impact on overall response rate (ORR), relapse rate or overall survival (OS). However, sub‐stratification of DH lymphomas by FISH indicated a possible inferior survival related to immunoglobulin MYC translocation partner gene. Screening of patients with BCLU and DLBCL of GCB type for DH BCL2/MYC translocation including MYC translocation partner gene may provide important prognostic information.
Randomized clinical trials: is periodontal research good for patients?
Authors: Williams Karen B. , Glaros Alan , Walker Mary P. , Cobb Charles M.
Published: April 2012

Randomized controlled trials, in which randomization is used to allocate patients to a treatment arm, are a relatively new concept. Randomized controlled trials are increasingly high‐stakes endeavors requiring a high level of planning and considerable financial support. Randomized controlled trials are the gold standard by which effectiveness of various treatments or interventions are determined. However, the methods involved in randomized controlled trials raise the question: is clinical research good for the participants? This paper discusses patient‐centered issues relating to randomized controlled trials, for example, whether the informed‐consent process results in subjects who are knowledgeable and informed about their participation, which, in turn, involves patient autonomy, health literacy and treatment preferences. Other issues discussed are those of statistical vs. clinical significance, professional ethics and ethical justification for randomized controlled trials, and differences in perceptions between patients and clinicians regarding the level of care being provided by the randomized controlled trials. Because our goal, as clinicians, is to provide treatment that improves the quality of life for the patient, it would seem logical that randomized controlled trials should include variables rated as important by patients as valid outcome measures. As clinicians and researchers, we can no longer afford to view randomized controlled trials from an ivory tower. Research participants, although autonomous agents, are inherently different from the patient seeking clinical care. Researchers have an ethical responsibility to consider the informed consent process as it relates to the subject’s health literacy and potential for therapeutic and procedural misperceptions.
Key statistical and analytical issues for evaluating treatment effects in periodontal research
Authors: Tu Yu‐Kang , Gilthorpe Mark S.
Published: April 2012

Statistics is an indispensible tool for evaluating treatment effects in clinical research. Due to the complexities of periodontal disease progression and data collection, statistical analyses for periodontal research have been a great challenge for both clinicians and statisticians. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of several basic, but important, statistical issues related to the evaluation of treatment effects and to clarify some common statistical misconceptions. Some of these issues are general, concerning many disciplines, and some are unique to periodontal research. We first discuss several statistical concepts that have sometimes been overlooked or misunderstood by periodontal researchers. For instance, decisions about whether to use the t‐test or analysis of covariance, or whether to use parametric tests such as the t‐test or its non‐parametric counterpart, the Mann‐Whitney U‐test, have perplexed many periodontal researchers. We also describe more advanced methodological issues that have sometimes been overlooked by researchers. For instance, the phenomenon of regression to the mean is a fundamental issue to be considered when evaluating treatment effects, and collinearity amongst covariates is a conundrum that must be resolved when explaining and predicting treatment effects. Quick and easy solutions to these methodological and analytical issues are not always available in the literature, and careful statistical thinking is paramount when conducting useful and meaningful research.
Coronally advanced flap and combination therapy for root coverage. Clinical strategies based on scientific evidence and clinical experience
Authors: Cortellini Pierpaolo , Pini Prato Giovanpaolo
Published: April 2012

During the past three decades, several surgical techniques have been proposed to treat single and multiple gingival recessions. Evidence indicates that coronally advanced flap‐based approaches result in the best clinical results. Among all the different techniques, the use of a graft under a coronally advanced flap results in the best short‐ and long‐term outcomes in terms of root coverage and gain in keratinized tissue. The use of a coronally advanced flap + connective tissue graft would appear to be the best choice for root coverage. However, harvesting a graft from the palate adds morbidity, surgical chair‐time and requires increased surgical skills. A potential alternative could be the use of enamel matrix derivatives under a coronally advanced flap, and this achieves similar clinical outcomes and is less invasive, but adds economic costs to the treatment. Evidence shows that a coronally advanced flap alone in many instances results in complete root coverage and is stable over time. A coronally advanced flap is less invasive for the patient, requires less chair‐time and probably less surgical skill. It would therefore be desirable to use a coronally advanced flap approach when indicated. It has been hypothesized that a coronally advanced flap approach alone could be successfully applied when the residual gingiva is thick and wide, although existing evidence does not support this hypothesis in full. Accordingly, the adjunctive use of a graft or enamel matrix derivatives could be restricted to sites at which there is thin and narrow residual gingiva.
Application of evidence‐based dentistry: from research to clinical periodontal practice
Authors: Kwok Vivien , Caton Jack G. , Polson Alan M. , Hunter Paul G.
Published: April 2012

Dentists need to make daily decisions regarding patient care, and these decisions should essentially be scientifically sound. Evidence‐based dentistry is meant to empower clinicians to provide the most contemporary treatment. The benefits of applying the evidence‐based method in clinical practice include application of the most updated treatment and stronger reasoning to justify the treatment. A vast amount of information is readily accessible with today’s digital technology, and a standardized search protocol can be developed to ensure that a literature search is valid, specific and repeatable. It involves developing a preset question (population, intervention, comparison and outcome; PICO) and search protocol. It is usually used academically to perform commissioned reviews, but it can also be applied to answer simple clinical queries. The scientific evidence thus obtained can then be considered along with patient preferences and values, clinical patient circumstances and the practitioner’s experience and judgment in order to make the treatment decision. This paper describes how clinicians can incorporate evidence‐based methods into patient care and presents a clinical example to illustrate the process.
Utilizing collagen membranes for guided tissue regeneration‐based root coverage
Authors: Wang Hom‐Lay , Modarressi Marmar , Fu Jia‐Hui
Published: April 2012

Gingival recession is a common clinical problem that can result in hypersensitivity, pain, root caries and esthetic concerns. Conventional soft tissue procedures for root coverage require an additional surgical site, thereby causing additional trauma and donor site morbidity. In addition, the grafted tissues heal by repair, with formation of long junctional epithelium with some connective tissue attachment. Guided tissue regeneration‐based root coverage was thus developed in an attempt to overcome these limitations while providing comparable clinical results. This paper addresses the biologic foundation of guided tissue regeneration‐based root coverage, and describes the indications and contraindications for this technique, as well as the factors that influence outcomes. The step‐by‐step clinical techniques utilizing collagen membranes are also described. In comparison with conventional soft tissue procedures, the benefits of guided tissue regeneration‐based root coverage procedures include new attachment formation, elimination of donor site morbidity, less chair‐time, and unlimited availability and uniform thickness of the product. Collagen membranes, in particular, benefit from product biocompatibility with the host, while promoting chemotaxis, hemostasis, and exchange of gas and nutrients. Such characteristics lead to better wound healing by promoting primary wound coverage, angiogenesis, space creation and maintenance, and clot stability. In conclusion, collagen membranes are a reliable alternative for use in root coverage procedures.
Clinical utility of stem cells for periodontal regeneration
Authors: Hynes Kim , Menicanin Danijela , Gronthos Stan , Bartold P. Mark
Published: April 2012

The aim of this review is to discuss the clinical utility of stem cells in periodontal regeneration by reviewing relevant literature that assesses the periodontal‐regenerative potential of stem cells. We considered and described the main stem cell populations that have been utilized with regard to periodontal regeneration, including bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells and the main dental‐derived mesenchymal stem cell populations: periodontal ligament stem cells, dental pulp stem cells, stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, stem cells from apical papilla and dental follicle precursor cells. Research into the use of stem cells for tissue regeneration has the potential to significantly influence periodontal treatment strategies in the future.
Critical issues in clinical periodontal research
Authors: Preshaw Philip M.
Published: April 2012

As periodontal researchers and clinicians, we are challenged every day to make decisions relating to the clinical management of our patients and about how best to conduct clinical periodontal research. This volume of Periodontology 2000 addresses some of the critical issues in contemporary clinical periodontics and periodontal research that are of direct relevance to clinicians, researchers, teachers and students. The 11 review articles in this volume of Periodontology 2000 focus on aspects of periodontal research methodology and clinical periodontology. In terms of research methodology, the articles aim to inform the reader on topics relating to randomized controlled trials in periodontal research, evidence‐based dentistry, calibration of clinical examiners and statistics relevant to periodontal research. The clinical periodontology articles address issues relating to decisions on retaining periodontally compromised teeth or replacing them with implants, periodontal management in the patient with osteoporosis, surgical approaches for root coverage and the emerging science of advanced regenerative technologies, including the use of stem cells, for periodontal regeneration. It is hoped that these critical reviews will address many of the dilemmas that confront us on a regular basis and provide practical guidance to those engaged in both clinical periodontology and clinical periodontal research.
The Interaction Between Importin‐α and Nup153 Promotes Importin‐α/β‐Mediated Nuclear Import
Authors: Ogawa Yutaka , Miyamoto Yoichi , Oka Masahiro , Yoneda Yoshihiro
Published: April 2012

Nuclear transport is mediated by transport factors, including the importin β family members. The directionality of nuclear transport is governed by the asymmetrical distribution of the small GTPase Ran. Of note, importin α/β‐mediated import of classical nuclear localization signal (cNLS) – containing cargo is more efficient than other Ran‐dependent import pathways that do not require importin α. In this study, we characterized the role of importin α in nuclear transport by examining import efficiencies of cNLS‐cargo/importin α/β complexes. We first depleted digitonin‐permeabilized semi‐intact cells of endogenous importin α and used the cells to show that the interaction between importin α and Nup153 – a component of the nuclear pore complex (NPC) – is essential for efficient import of importin β‐binding domain containing substrates, but not other cargoes that directly bind to importin β. Moreover, we found that the binding of importin α to Nup153 facilitates cNLS‐mediated import, and demonstrated that importin α in import complexes and cargo‐free importin α prebound to Nup153 promote efficient import of cNLS‐containing proteins. This is the first in vitro study showing that in conjunction with Nup153, importin α contributes to directionally biased exit of cNLS‐containing cargo to the nuclear side of NPCs.
Translational behaviour‐genetic studies of alcohol: are we there yet?
Authors: Crabbe J. C.
Published: April 2012

In biomedical research, one key stage of translating basic science knowledge to clinical practice is the reconciliation of phenotypes employed for laboratory animal studies with those important for the clinical condition. Alcohol dependence (AD) is a prototypic complex genetic trait. There is a long history of behaviour‐genetic studies of AD in both human subjects and various genetic animal models. This review assesses the state of the art in our understanding of the genetic contributions to AD. In particular, it primarily focuses on the phenotypes studied in mouse genetic animal models, comparing them to the aspects of the human condition they are intended to target. It identifies several features of AD where genetic animal models have been particularly useful, and tries to identify understudied areas where there is good promise for further genetic animal model work.
Treatment protocol for denture stomatitis, prior to anatomical molding
Authors: Milton Rocha Gusmão João , Pereira Renato Piai
Published: April 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00661.x

Treatment protocol for denture stomatitis, prior to anatomical molding

Background:  Microorganisms of the genus Candida have been recovered from complete dentures made of acrylic resin, with high numbers of colony forming units and species diversity, which can act as infectious agents causing chronic atrophic candidiasis (denture stomatitis).

Objective:  The objective of this paper is present a treatment protocol for chronic atrophic candidiasis (denture stomatitis).

Materials and Methods:  The work describes three cases of totally edentulous patients presenting palate stomatitis who were submitted for treatment associating denture rebasing with chemically‐activated acrylic resin, night immersion in 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and use of topical antifungals for two weeks.

Results:  In all cases, remission of the inflammatory process occurred.

Conclusion:  The proposed treatment protocol proved to be to be effective.
The Role of Left Superior Parietal Lobe in Male Sexual Behavior: Dynamics of Distinct Components Revealed by fMRI
Authors: Cera Nicoletta , Di Pierro Ezio D. , Sepede Gianna , Gambi Francesco , Perrucci Mauro Gianni , Merla Arcangelo , Tartaro Armando , Del Gratta Cosimo , Galatioto Paradiso Giuseppe , Vicentini Carlo , Romani Gian Luca , Ferretti Antonio
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Despite the interest for the brain correlates of male sexual arousal, few studies investigated neural mechanisms underlying psychogenic erectile dysfunction (ED). Although these studies showed several brain regions active in ED patients during visual erotic stimulation, the dynamics of inhibition of sexual response is still unclear.

Aim

This study investigated the dynamics of brain regions involved in the psychogenic ED.

Methods

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and simultaneous penile tumescence (PT) were used to study brain activity evoked in 17 outpatients with psychogenic ED and 19 healthy controls during visual erotic stimulation. Patterns of brain activation related to different phases of sexual response in the two groups were compared.

Main Outcome Measures

Simultaneous recording of blood oxygen level-dependent fMRI responses and PT during visual erotic stimulation.

Results

During visual erotic stimuli, a larger activation was observed for the patient group in the left superior parietal lobe, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and posterior cingulate cortex, whereas the control group showed larger activation in the right middle insula and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and hippocampus. Moreover, the left superior parietal lobe showed a larger activation in patients than controls especially during the later stage of sexual response.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that, among regions more active in patient group, the left superior parietal lobe plays a crucial role in inhibition of sexual response. Previous studies showed that left superior parietal lobe is involved in monitoring of internal body representation. The larger activation of this region in patients during later stages of sexual response suggests a high monitoring of the internal body representation, possibly affecting the behavioral response. These findings provide insight on brain mechanisms involved in psychogenic ED.
Sleep duration and overweight/obesity in children: Review and implications for pediatric nursing
Authors: Liu Jianghong , Zhang Angelina , Li Linda
Published: April 2012

Purpose.  The purpose of this study was to review evidence from the last 5 years (2006–2011) regarding a relationship between sleep duration and childhood overweight/obesity.

Conclusions.  Among the 25 studies selected from PubMed and Web of Knowledge databases, all indicated significant associations between short sleep duration and childhood overweight/obesity. Studies explored a range of pediatric populations, methodologies, and potential contributing factors.

Practice Implications.  Childhood sleep duration may be a modifiable risk factor in preventing obesity. In addition to identifying and assessing patients' sleep habits, nurses play important roles as educators regarding the importance of adequate sleep and promoting it in children.
PASTEURIZED BLUEBERRY (VACCINIUM CORYMBOSUM) JUICE INHIBITS GROWTH OF BACTERIAL PATHOGENS IN MILK BUT ALLOWS SURVIVAL OF PROBIOTIC BACTERIA
Authors: BISWAS DEBABRATA , WIDEMAN NATHAN E. , O'BRYAN CORLISS A. , MUTHAIYAN ARUNACHALAM , LINGBECK JODY M. , CRANDALL PHILIP G. , RICKE STEVEN C.
Published: April 2012

Compounds found in berries exhibit a wide range of effects including antimicrobial activities. In this study, the antimicrobial properties of blueberry juice against the foodborne pathogens Salmonella Typhimurium, Campylobacter jejuni, Listeria monocytogenes and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 were investigated. Inhibition was measured in 100% blueberry juice or a 1:1 (v/v) mixture of milk and blueberry juice with growth in 100% milk used as a control. The growth of all four pathogens was reduced below the detection level (100 cfu/mL) by blueberry juice, and reduced by 4–7 log cfu/mL in a mixture of milk and blueberry juice. The effects of blueberry juice on probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Bifidibacterium bifidis were also investigated. The growth was less in a 1:1 (v/v) mixture of blueberry juice and skim milk as compared with milk alone, but these probiotic organisms were able to survive and grow. These data demonstrate the potential of blueberry juice for use as an all‐natural antimicrobial.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Foodborne pathogens sicken millions in the U.S.A. each year. The research reported here indicates that juice from blueberries can inhibit the growth of these foodborne bacteria. In addition, the blueberry juice did not substantially inhibit the growth of beneficial bacteria such as those found in yogurt.
EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT CULTIVATION CONDITIONS ON STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS BIOFILM FORMATION AND DIVERSITY OF ADHESIN GENES
Authors: TANG JUNNI , CHEN JUAN , LIU JI , ZHANG RONG , YANG RONGSHENG , CHEN LIANGHONG
Published: April 2012

Staphylococcus aureus isolates from foodborne outbreaks were screened for the presence of icaAD, icaBC, clfB, clfA, fnbA, fnbB, ebpS, eno, fib, sasG, sasC, bbp, bap and cna genes that encode microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules. All isolates were positive for icaAD, icaBC, fnbA, fib, sasC and cna, and negative for clfA, bbp and bap. The diversity of clfB, fnbB, sasG, eno and ebpS genes was found to exist. It was remarkable that only biofilm‐formation strains were positive for clfB. Furthermore, the effects of the NaCl concentration; glucose, sucrose, lactose and mannitol concentration; pH value; and growth media (Luria broth, basic medium, tryptic soy broth, 7.5% sodium chloride broth and common broth) on S. aureus biofilm formation were compared. Basic medium was proved in favor of biofilm formation. 7.5% sodium chloride broth went against biofilm formation. In detail, different saccharides could effectively promote biofilm formation. Contrarily, the biofilm formation was continuously decreased with increasing NaCl concentration. The effect of pH values on biofilm formation was significant. The rise or drop in pH value (≥12 or ≤4) was directly involved in the decrease in the biofilm formation. Taken together, the biofilm formation of S. aureus influenced by multiple factors and different adhesin genes, which may contribute to biofilm phenotype, possesses diversity.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation presents a serious clinical problem. Environmental factor and cultivation conditions contribute a lot to the biofilm development in many S. aureus clinical isolates. Comparing the effect of different cultivation conditions on S. aureus biofilm formation and detecting the presence of different adhesive matrix molecule genes might help clarify the diversity of biofilm formation in foodborne outbreak strains. Applying appropriate sodium chloride solution and proper pH values could be an available way for controlling biofilm formation in S. aureus.