bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where Is the Essence? Developmental Shifts in Children’s Beliefs About Internal Features
Authors: Newman George E. , Keil Frank C.
Published: September 2008

The present studies investigated children’s and adults’ intuitive beliefs about the physical nature of essences. Adults and children (ranging in age from 6 to 10 years old) were asked to reason about 2 different ways of determining an unknown object’s category: taking a tiny internal sample from any part of the object (distributed view of essence) or taking a sample from one specific region (localized view of essence). Results from 3 studies indicated that adults strongly endorsed the distributed view, and children showed a developmental shift from a localized to distributed view with increasing age. These results suggest that even children go beyond mere placeholder notions of essence, committing to conceptual frameworks of how essences might be physically instantiated.
Gene–Environment Contributions to the Development of Infant Vagal Reactivity: The Interaction of Dopamine and Maternal Sensitivity
Authors: Propper Cathi , Moore Ginger A. , Mills‐Koonce W. Roger , Halpern Carolyn Tucker , Hill‐Soderlund Ashley L. , Calkins Susan D. , Carbone Mary Anna , Cox Martha
Published: September 2008

This study investigated dopamine receptor genes (DRD2andDRD4) and maternal sensitivity as predictors of infant respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and RSA reactivity, purported indices of vagal tone and vagal regulation, in a challenge task at 3, 6, and 12 months in 173 infant–mother dyads. Hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) revealed that at 3 and 6 months, RSA withdrawal in response to maternal separation was greater (suggesting expected physiological regulation) in infants without theDRD2risk allele than those with the risk allele. At 12 months, infants with the risk allele who were also exposed to maternal sensitivity showed levels of RSA withdrawal comparable to infants who were not at genetic risk. Findings demonstrate the importance of developmental analysis of gene–environment interaction.
The Family Check‐Up With High‐Risk Indigent Families: Preventing Problem Behavior by Increasing Parents’ Positive Behavior Support in Early Childhood
Authors: Dishion Thomas J. , Shaw Daniel , Connell Arin , Gardner Frances , Weaver Chelsea , Wilson Melvin
Published: September 2008

Seven hundred thirty‐one income‐eligible families in 3 geographical regions who were enrolled in a national food supplement program were screened and randomized to a brief family intervention. At child ages 2 and 3, the intervention group caregivers were offered the Family Check‐Up and linked parenting support services. Latent growth models on caregiver reports at child ages 2, 3, and 4 revealed decreased behavior problems when compared with the control group. Intervention effects occurred predominantly among families reporting high levels of problem behavior at child age 2. Families in the intervention condition improved on direct observation measures of caregivers’ positive behavior support at child ages 2 and 3; improvements in positive behavior support mediated improvements in children’s early problem behavior.
Maternal Socialization of Positive Affect: The Impact of Invalidation on Adolescent Emotion Regulation and Depressive Symptomatology
Authors: Yap Marie B. H. , Allen Nicholas B. , Ladouceur Cecile D.
Published: September 2008

This study examined the relations among maternal socialization of positive affect (PA), adolescent emotion regulation (ER), and adolescent depressive symptoms. Two hundred early adolescents, 11–13 years old, provided self‐reports of ER strategies and depressive symptomatology; their mothers provided self‐reports of socialization responses to adolescent PA. One hundred and sixty‐three mother–adolescent dyads participated in 2 interaction tasks. Adolescents whose mothers responded in an invalidating or “dampening” manner toward their PA displayed more emotionally dysregulated behaviors and reported using maladaptive ER strategies more frequently. Adolescents whose mothers dampened their PA more frequently during mother–adolescent interactions, and girls whose mothers reported invalidating their PA, reported more depressive symptoms. Adolescent use of maladaptive ER strategies mediated the association between maternal invalidation of PA and early adolescents’ concurrent depressive symptoms.
Infants’ Use of Lexical‐Category‐to‐Meaning Links in Object Individuation
Authors: Hall D. Geoffrey , Corrigall Kathleen , Rhemtulla Mijke , Donegan Eleanor , Xu Fei
Published: September 2008

Infants watched an experimenter retrieve a stuffed animal from an opaque box and then return it. This happened twice, consistent with either 1 animal appearing on 2 occasions or 2 identical‐looking animals each appearing once. The experimenter labeled each object appearance with a different novel label. After infants retrieved 1 object from the box, their subsequent search behavior was recorded. Twenty‐month‐olds, but not 16‐month‐olds, searched significantly longer for a second object inside the box when the labels were both proper names than when they were 1 count noun followed by 1 proper name. The effect was not significant when proper names were replaced by adjectives. Twenty‐month‐olds’ understanding of meaning distinctions among several word categories guided their object individuation.
Neighborhood Poverty and Early Transition to Sexual Activity in Young Adolescents: A Developmental Ecological Approach
Authors: Dupéré Véronique , Lacourse Éric , Willms J. Douglas , Leventhal Tama , Tremblay Richard E.
Published: September 2008

This study examined how the link between neighborhood poverty and the timing of sexual initiation varies as a function of age, gender, and background characteristics. A sample ofN= 2,596 predominately White Canadian adolescents from the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth was used. Sexual initiations occurring between 12 and 15 years old were considered. Results showed that younger adolescent females who lived in poor neighborhoods and who had a history of conduct problems were more likely to report early sexual activity. Peer characteristics partly accounted for this susceptibility. Among adolescent males, no direct neighborhood effects were found, but those who had combined risks at multiple levels appeared more vulnerable. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Effects of Family Violence on Psychopathology Symptoms in Children Previously Exposed to Maltreatment
Authors: Maikovich Andrea Kohn , Jaffee Sara R. , Odgers Candice L. , Gallop Robert
Published: September 2008

Although many studies suggest that family violence is associated with child psychopathology, multiple features of the home environment might account for this association, such as poverty and caregiver psychopathology. Studies are needed examining how change in psychopathology symptoms is affected by home violence, controlling for children’s own developmental symptom histories and other predictors of psychopathology. This study used latent difference score structural equation modeling to test if witnessing home violence and/or experiencing harsh physical discipline predicted changes in psychopathology symptoms among 2,925 youth aged 5–16 years previously exposed to violence. Results demonstrated that harsh physical discipline predicted child‐specific changes in externalizing symptoms, whereas witnessing violence predicted child‐specific changes in internalizing symptoms across time. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Limitations to Teaching Children 2 + 2 = 4: Typical Arithmetic Problems Can Hinder Learning of Mathematical Equivalence
Authors: McNeil Nicole M.
Published: September 2008

Do typical arithmetic problems hinder learning of mathematical equivalence? Second and third graders (7–9 years old; N= 80) received lessons on mathematical equivalence either with or without typical arithmetic problems (e.g., 15 + 13 = 28 vs. 28 = 28, respectively). Children then solved math equivalence problems (e.g., 3 + 9 + 5 = 6 + __), switched lesson conditions, and solved math equivalence problems again. Correct solutions were less common following instruction with typical arithmetic problems. In a supplemental experiment, fifth graders (10–11 years old; N= 19) gave fewer correct solutions after a brief intervention on mathematical equivalence that included typical arithmetic problems. Results suggest that learning is hindered when lessons activate inappropriate existing knowledge.
Developmental Trajectories of Sex‐Typed Behavior in Boys and Girls: A Longitudinal General Population Study of Children Aged 2.5–8 Years
Authors: Golombok Susan , Rust John , Zervoulis Karyofyllis , Croudace Tim , Golding Jean , Hines Melissa
Published: September 2008

The stability of sex‐typed behavior from the preschool to the middle school years was examined. The Preschool Activities Inventory, a measure of within‐sex variation in sex‐typed behavior, was completed by the primary caregiver when the child was 2.5, 3.5, and 5 years, and a modified version, the Child Activities Inventory, was completed by the child at age 8. The investigation involved a general population sample of 2,726 boys and 2,775 girls. Sex‐typed behavior increased through the preschool years, and those children who were the most sex typed at age 2.5 were still the most sex typed at age 5, with those children who showed the highest levels of sex‐typed behavior during the preschool years continuing to do so at age 8.
Multiobjective Optimization of Concrete Frames by Simulated Annealing
Authors: Paya Ignacio , Yepes Víctor , González‐Vidosa Fernando , Hospitaler Antonio
Published: September 2008

Abstract:  This article aims to describe a methodology to design RC building frames based on a multiobjective simulated annealing (MOSA) algorithm applied to four objective functions, namely, the economic cost, the constructability, the environmental impact, and the overall safety of RC framed structures. The evaluation of solutions follows the Spanish Code for structural concrete. The methodology was applied to a symmetrical building frame with two bays and four floors. This example has 77 design variables. Pareto results of the MOSA algorithm indicate that more practical, more constructable, more sustainable, and safer solutions than the lowest cost solution are available at a cost increment acceptable in practice. Results Ns‐SMOSA1 and Ns‐SMOSA2 of the cost versus constructability Pareto front are finally recommended because they are especially good in terms of cost, constructability, and environmental impact. Further, the methodology proposed will help structural engineers to enhance their designs of building frames.
Prospective association between emotional health and clinical evidence of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Ishihara‐Paul L. , Wainwright N. W. J. , Khaw K.‐T. , Luben R. N. , Welch A. A. , Day N. E. , Brayne C. , Surtees P. G.
Published: September 2008

Background and purpose:  Whilst disorders of emotion are commonly comorbid with Parkinson’s disease (PD), evidence concerning their association with PD risk is limited. We investigate the prospective association between selected measures of emotional health and incident suspected PD.

Methods:  20 855 men and women, considered PD‐free at baseline, completed a postal assessment of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), psychological distress [defined by the five‐item Mental Health Inventory (MHI‐5)], and neuroticism. PD case ascertainment was based upon PD medication use, self‐report questionnaires, hospital record discharge codes, and death certification, subsequently checked against general practitioner, hospital records and neurological service records.

Results:  175 suspected cases of incident PD were identified in 160 725 (median 7.9) person‐years of follow‐up (with 43 recorded in neurological service records). MDD lifetime history, GAD lifetime history, MHI‐5 and neuroticism were all significantly associated with suspected PD following adjustment for age, sex, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, social class and education.

Conclusions:  This study supports an association between measures of emotional health, assessed prior to evidence of motor symptoms, and subsequent suspected PD diagnosis. However, we were unable to determine whether our measures of personality and emotional health represent genuine premorbid risk factors or early stages of PD. Long‐term prospective healthy cohort studies are required to investigate the relationship between emotional health history and the evolution of the premotor and motor phases of PD.
Comparison of the genetics and nesting ecology of two green turtle rookeries
Authors: Cheng I.‐J. , Dutton P. H. , Chen C.‐L. , Chen H.‐C. , Chen Y‐H. , Shea J.‐W.
Published: September 2008

We characterize the behavioral, phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of the two main green turtle Chelonia mydas nesting populations remaining in Taiwan and examine how the differing ecology of the nesting environments on each island may have influenced these life‐history traits. Wan‐an Island in the south‐west sector of the Taiwan Straits was found to be hotter and drier than Lanyu Island located south‐east of Taiwan in the Pacific Ocean. The frequency of nesting attempts and the internesting intervals were both significantly greater (mean nesting attempts: 15.4 vs. 15.2, mean internesting interval: 13.7 vs. 10.6 days) for the Wan‐an nesters. Nests were deeper (69.6 vs. 69.0 cm) while the incubation duration was shorter on this island (52.1 vs. 54.7 days). Green turtles were larger on Lanyu, but deposited smaller eggs. Nests on Lanyu had higher hatching success, hatchling emergence success and clutch survival rate (hatching success; 72.2 vs. 80.76%, hatchling emergence success; 47 vs. 64.1%, clutch survival rate; 67.7 vs. 70.3%). However, hatchlings on Wan‐an were larger (HC; 47.6 vs. 46.6 cm. HW; 23.9 vs. 21.7 cm). Analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences obtained from a total of 53 nesters indicated that both rookeries are genetically distinct (FST=0.673, P<0.00001), with a single haplotype characterizing the Lanyu rookery (n=13). This lack of gene flow between the two rookeries is evidence for localized natal homing and is consistent with the morphological and behavioral differences that we detected between the two rookeries. These findings are surprising given the close geographic proximity of the two rookeries.
Effect of heat treatment of skim milk and final fermentation pH on graininess and roughness of stirred yogurt
Authors: KÜCÜKCETIN AHMET
Published: September 2008

The effects of heat treatment of skim milk (95°C/80 s, 95°C/256 s, 110°C/40 s, 110°C/180 s, 130°C/20 s and 130°C/80 s) and final fermentation pH of yogurt (4.8 and 4.4) on physical characteristics of stirred yogurt were investigated. Physical properties, including graininess and roughness, of stirred yogurt were determined during storage at 4°C for 15 days. Number of grains, perimeter of grains, visual roughness, storage modulus and yield stress decreased, when heating temperature or final fermentation pH increased. For practical applications, processing parameters such as heat treatment and fermentation pH can be optimized to improve quality or modified to create fermented milk products with different physical properties.
Applicability of bacteriocin‐producing Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium and Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis as adjunct starter in Minas Frescal cheesemaking
Authors: NASCIMENTO MARISTELA S. , MORENO IZILDINHA , KUAYE ARNALDO Y.
Published: September 2008

The antimicrobial and technological characteristics of three bacteriocinogenic cultures used as adjunct starters in Minas Frescal cheese were investigated. The cheeses were manufactured with 1% commercial lactic starter and 0.5%Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis ATCC 11454, Lactobacillus plantarum ALC 01 or Enterococcus faecium FAIR‐E 198. The cheeses were then artificially inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes Scott A, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 27154 and Bacillus cereus K1‐B041 and stored for 21 days at 8°C. The results show that there was no significant difference in the counts of L. monocytogenes and S. aureus between the cheeses made with added bacteriocinogenic cultures and the control cheese. On the other hand, B. cereus exhibited susceptibility to Lb. plantarum ALC 01 and E. faecium FAIR‐E 198 from the seventh day of storage. However, these cultures increased the proteolysis of the Minas Frescal cheese.
A food‐derived synergist of NGF signaling: identification of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B as a key regulator of NGF receptor‐initiated signal transduction
Authors: Shibata Takahiro , Nakahara Hiroko , Kita Narumi , Matsubara Yui , Han Chunguang , Morimitsu Yasujiro , Iwamoto Noriko , Kumagai Yoshito , Nishida Motohiro , Kurose Hitoshi , Aoki Naohito , Ojika Makoto , Uchida Koji
Published: September 2008

Neurotrophins, such as the nerve growth factor (NGF), play an essential role in the growth, development, survival and functional maintenance of neurons in the central and peripheral systems. They also prevent neuronal cell death under various stressful conditions, such as ischemia and neurodegenerative disorders. NGF induces cell differentiation and neurite outgrowth by binding with and activating the NGF receptor tyrosine kinase followed by activation of a variety of signaling cascades. We have investigated the NGF‐dependent neuritogenesis enhancer potential of a food‐derived small molecule contained in Brassica vegetables and identified the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) 1B as a key regulator of the NGF receptor‐initiated signal transduction. Based on an extensive screening of Brassica vegetable extracts for the neuritogenic‐promoting activity in the rat pheochromocytoma cell line PC12, we found the Japanese horseradish, wasabi (Wasabia japonica, syn. Eutrema wasabi), as the richest source and identified 6‐methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (6‐HITC), an analogue of sulforaphane isolated from broccoli, as one of the major neuritogenic enhancers in the wasabi. 6‐HITC strongly enhanced the neurite outgrowth and neurofilament expression elicited by a low‐concentration of NGF that alone was insufficient to induce neuronal differentiation. 6‐HITC also facilitated the sustained‐phosphorylation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and the autophosphorylation of the NGF receptor TrkA. It was found that PTP1B act as a phosphatase capable of dephosphorylating Tyr‐490 of TrkA and was inactivated by 6‐HITC in a redox‐dependent manner. The identification of PTP1B as a regulator of NGF signaling may provide new clues about the chemoprotective potential of food components, such as isothiocyanates.
Functional and molecular analysis of GABAAreceptors in human midbrain‐derived neural progenitor cells
Authors: Wegner Florian , Kraft Robert , Busse Kathy , Härtig Wolfgang , Schaarschmidt Grit , Schwarz Sigrid C. , Schwarz Johannes , Hevers Wulf
Published: September 2008

GABAAreceptor function is involved in regulating proliferation, migration, and differentiation of rodent neural progenitor cells (NPCs). However, little is known about the molecular composition and functional relevance of GABAAreceptors in human neural progenitors. Here, we investigated human fetal midbrain‐derived NPCs in respect to their GABAAreceptor function and subunit expression using electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and quantitative real‐time PCR. Whole‐cell recordings of ligand‐ and voltage‐gated ion channels demonstrate the ability of NPCs to generate action potentials and to express functional GABAAreceptors after differentiation for 3 weeksin vitro. Pharmacological and molecular characterizations indicate a predominance of GABAAreceptor heteromers containing subunits α2, β1, and/or β3, and γ. Intracellular Ca2+measurements and the expression profile of the Na+–K+–Cl−co‐transporter 1 and the K+–Cl−co‐transporter 2 in differentiated NPCs suggest that GABA evokes depolarizations mediated by GABAAreceptors. These data indicate that NPCs derived from human fetal midbrain tissue acquire essential GABAAreceptor properties during neuronal maturationin vitro.
The Bases of Power and the Power/Interaction Model of Interpersonal Influence
Authors: Raven Bertram H.
Published: September 2008

This article provides a summary of work done by Raven and his colleagues on bases of power. It ranges from the initial work in 1959 of French and Raven through decades of follow‐up work, and ties the work to that of others doing work on power bases. After the summary, the author responds to a series of questions that probe the work in greater depth, allowing explication of much of the thinking underlying and leading to publications of Raven and colleagues that are well known to social psychologists.
Otago Home‐Based Strength and Balance Retraining Improves Executive Functioning in Older Fallers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Liu‐Ambrose Teresa , Donaldson Meghan G. , Ahamed Yasmin , Graf Peter , Cook Wendy L. , Close Jacqueline , Lord Stephen R. , Khan Karim M.
Published: September 2008

OBJECTIVES: To primarily ascertain the effect of the Otago Exercise Program (OEP) on physiological falls risk, functional mobility, and executive functioning after 6 months in older adults with a recent history of falls and to ascertain the effect of the OEP on falls during a 1‐year follow‐up period.

DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING: Dedicated falls clinics.

PARTICIPANTS: Seventy‐four adults aged 70 and older who presented to a healthcare professional after a fall.

INTERVENTION: The OEP, a home‐based program that consists of resistance training and balance training exercises.

MEASUREMENTS: Physiological falls risk was assessed using the Physiological Profile Assessment. Functional mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test. Three central executive functions were assessed: set shifting, using the Trail Making Test Part B; updating, using the verbal digits backward test; and response inhibition, using the Stroop Color‐Word Test. Falls were prospectively monitored using daily calendars.

RESULTS: At 6 months, there was no significant between‐group difference in physiological falls risk or functional mobility (P≥ .33). There was a significant between‐group difference in response inhibition (P=.05). A falls histogram revealed two outliers. With these cases removed, using negative binomial regression, the unadjusted incidence rate ratio of falls in the OEP group compared with the control group was 0.56. The adjusted incidence rate ratio was 0.47.

CONCLUSION: The OEP may reduce falls by improving cognitive performance.
Cognitive Effects of Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Ancoli‐Israel Sonia , Palmer Barton W. , Cooke Jana R. , Corey‐Bloom Jody , Fiorentino Lavinia , Natarajan Loki , Liu Lianqi , Ayalon Liat , He Feng , Loredo Jose S.
Published: September 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) results in better cognitive function.

DESIGN: Randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial. Participants were randomized to therapeutic CPAP for 6 weeks or placebo CPAP for 3 weeks followed by therapeutic CPAP for 3 weeks.

SETTING: General clinical research center.

PARTICIPANTS: Fifty‐two men and women with mild to moderate AD and OSA.

INTERVENTION: CPAP.

MEASUREMENTS: A complete neuropsychological test battery was administered before treatment and at 3 and at 6 weeks.

RESULTS: A comparison of subjects randomized to 3 weeks of therapeutic versus placebo CPAP suggested no significant improvements in cognition. A comparison of pre‐ and posttreatment neuropsychological test scores after 3 weeks of therapeutic CPAP in both groups showed a significant improvement in cognition. The study was underpowered to make definitive statements about improvements within specific cognitive constructs, although exploratory post hoc examination of change scores for individual tests suggested improvements in episodic verbal learning and memory and some aspects of executive functioning such as cognitive flexibility and mental processing speed.

CONCLUSION: OSA may aggravate cognitive dysfunction in dementia and thus may be a reversible cause of cognitive loss in patients with AD. OSA treatment seems to improve some cognitive functioning. Clinicians who care for patients with AD should consider implementing CPAP treatment when OSA is present.
Kidney Function and Cognitive Performance and Decline in Older Men
Authors: Slinin Yelena , Paudel Misti L. , Ishani Areef , Taylor Brent C. , Yaffe Kristine , Murray Anne M. , Fink Howard A. , Orwoll Eric S. , Cummings Steven R. , Barrett‐Connor Elizabeth , Jassal Simerjot , Ensrud Kristine E. ,   for the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study Group
Published: September 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine the association between kidney function and cognitive impairment and decline in elderly men.

DESIGN: Observational prospective cohort.

SETTING: Community based.

PARTICIPANTS: Five thousand five hundred twenty‐nine community dwelling men aged 65 and older (mean age 73.6 ± 5.9).

MEASUREMENTS: Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculated using the standardized Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation; cognitive function assessed using the Modified Mini‐Mental State Examination (3MS) and Trail Making Test B (Trails B).

RESULTS: At baseline, 148 (2.7%) and 494 (9.1%) men were classified as cognitively impaired and, in the 5‐year prospective analysis, 931 (23%) and 432 (11.6%) met the criteria for cognitive decline at follow‐up defined according to 3MS and Trails B performance, respectively. In unadjusted analysis, the odds of prevalent cognitive impairment and risk of cognitive decline were significantly higher in men with an eGFR less than 45 and 45 to 59 mL/min per 1.73 m2 than in men with an eGFR 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or greater. Differences in age, race, and education between eGFR categories largely explained these associations, with the exception of the association between poorer renal function and higher odds of impairment based on Trails B test score, which persisted despite adjustment for multiple potential confounders.

CONCLUSION: This study found evidence of an independent association between mild to moderate reductions in kidney function and poor executive function at baseline but not with global cognitive impairment or risk of cognitive decline in older men.
Lay and Expert Interpretations of Cancer Cluster Evidence
Authors: Levy Andrea Gurmankin , Weinstein Neil , Kidney Erin , Scheld Suzanne , Guarnaccia Peter
Published: September 2008

Conflict frequently occurs between community members and environmental/public health officials when an unusual number of cancer cases is reported. This conflict may result from different ways in which laypeople and experts interpret facts to judge whether there is an environmental cause of the cancer cases, but little is known about this issue. Volunteer laypeople (N= 551) and epidemiologists (N= 105) read a hypothetical scenario about cases of cancer on one neighborhood block. Participants judged whether each of the 23 facts about the situation made it “much more likely” to “much less likely” that something in town was causing the cancer cases (7‐point scale). The facts were designed to be “alarming,”“reassuring,” or “neutral” (i.e., according to epidemiological principles, should increase, decrease, or have no impact on the likelihood of an environmental cause). The laypeople were alarmed by most of the facts (mean response significantly greater than the scale midpoint), including all of the neutral facts and over half of the reassuring facts. The experts were more balanced: they were alarmed by none of the neutral or reassuring facts. Their responses showed significantly less alarm than the laypeople's responses (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons). This study reveals that laypeople are not reassured by information that substantially lowers the chance of an environmental cause for cancer cases. Lay responses differ significantly and systematically from experts who are far less alarmed by relevant facts. These findings may help explain the conflicts between the two groups in situations where concern about cases of cancer arises in a community.
Improving Tsunami Warning Systems with Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System Input
Authors: Wang Jin‐Feng , Li Lian‐Fa
Published: September 2008

An optimal and integrative tsunami warning system is introduced that takes full advantage of remote sensing and geographical information systems (GIS) in monitoring, forecasting, detection, loss evaluation, and relief management for tsunamis. Using the primary impact zone in Banda Aceh, Indonesia as the pilot area, we conducted three simulations that showed that while the December 26, 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami claimed about 300,000 lives because there was no tsunami warning system at all, it is possible that only about 15,000 lives could have been lost if the area had used a tsunami warning system like that currently in use in the Pacific Ocean. The simulations further calculated that the death toll could have been about 3,000 deaths if there had been a disaster system further optimized with full use of remote sensing and GIS, although the number of badly damaged or destroyed houses (29,545) could have likely remained unchanged.
Clinical Judgment Versus Decision Analysis for Managing Device Advisories
Authors: AMIN MITESH S. , WOOD MARK A. , SHEPARD RICHARD K. , KALAHASTY GAUTHAM , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A.
Published: September 2008

Introduction: Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) and pacemaker (PM) advisories may have a significant impact on patient management. Surveys of clinical practice have shown a great deal of variability in patient management after a device advisory. We compared our management of consecutive patients in a single large university practice with device advisories to the “best” patient management strategy predicted by a decision analysis model.

Methods: We performed a retrospective review of all patients who had implanted devices affected by an advisory at our medical center between March 2005 and May 2006 and compared our actual patient management strategy with that subsequently predicted by a decision analysis model.

Results: Over 14 months, 11 advisories from three different manufacturers affected 436 patients. Twelve patients (2.8%) were deceased and 39 patients (8.9%) were followed at outside facilities. Management of the 385 remaining patients varied based on type of malfunction or potential malfunction, manufacturer recommendations, device dependency, and patient or physician preferences. Management consisted of the following: 57 device replacements (15.2%), 44 devices reprogrammed or magnets issued (11.7%), and 268 patients underwent more frequent follow‐up (71.3%). No major complications, related to device malfunction or device replacement, occurred among any patient affected with a device advisory. Concordance between the decision analysis model and our management strategy occurred in 57.1% of cases and 25 devices were replaced when it was not the preferred treatment strategy predicted by the decision model (43.9%, 37.3% when excluding devices replaced based on patient preference). The decision analysis favored replacement for all patients with PM dependency, but only for four patients with ICDs for secondary prevention. No devices were left implanted that the decision analysis model predicted should have been replaced.

Conclusions: We found that despite a fairly conservative device replacement strategy for advisories, we still replaced more devices when it was not the preferred device management strategy predicted by a decision analysis model. This study demonstrates that even when risks and benefits are being considered by experienced clinicians, a formal decision analysis can help to develop a systematic evidence based approach and potentially avoid unnecessary procedures.
Cardiac Biomarkers in Patients with Permanent Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators Undergoing an MRI Scan
Authors: MOLLERUS MICHAEL , ALBIN GLENN , LIPINSKI MARGARET , LUCCA JILL
Published: September 2008

Background:

Recent series suggest that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning can be performed safely in select patients with pacemakers or implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs). Limited data have been reported on cardiac biomarker release following MRI scans in patients with pacemakers. The current study evaluated cardiac biomarkers pre‐ and postscan in patients with permanent pacemakers or ICDs undergoing MRI scanning of any body region without peak specific absorption rate (SAR) limit.

Methods:

Thirty‐seven patients with a total of 75 leads underwent a total of 40 MRI scans of both truncal and nontruncal regions using usual protocols with standard peak SAR settings for the scan. No patient was pacemaker dependent. Pacemaker magnet mode and ICD therapy were disabled during the scan. Baseline cardiac troponin‐I and myoglobin levels were obtained immediate pre‐ and 6–12 hours postscan. Pacemaker capture thresholds were measured immediately pre‐ and postscan.

Results:

The median peak SAR was 2.4 (1.3, 3.2) W/kg for all scans. Cardiac troponin‐I was unchanged following an MRI scan (0.01 (0.01, 0.02) versus 0.01 (0.01, 0.02) ng/mL, P = 0.90). Capture thresholds were no different pre‐ and postscan (0.67 (0.50, 0.80) versus 0.70 (0.50, 0.79) V at 0.5 ms, P = 0.50).

Conclusions:

The current series suggests that an MRI scan may be performed safely in carefully selected patients with close monitoring during the scan without limitation on peak SAR level or body landmark. Furthermore, it is unlikely that an MRI scan will produce sufficient tissue heating to cause enough myocardial cell necrosis to result in cardiac biomarker release.
Circadian Rhythm of Appropriate Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Discharges in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: KIERNAN THOMAS J. , WEIVODA PEGGY L. , SOMERS VIREND K. , OMMEN STEVE R. , GERSH BERNARD J.
Published: September 2008

Aims:

To characterize the circadian pattern of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) discharges in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) without previous surgical myectomy or percutaneous alcohol septal ablation.

Methods and Results:

HCM patients without previous surgical myectomy or percutaneous alcohol septal ablation having undergone ICD insertion at Mayo Clinic from 1992 to 2005 were studied. Analysis of appropriate ICD discharges with respect to time of day was performed. During a mean follow‐up of 4.4 ± 4 years (P = 0.02), a total of 122 appropriate discharges were recorded. The average event rate for this group of patients was 4.3% per year. The circadian pattern reveals a pronounced peak in ICD discharges for the hours from 14:00 to 16:00. HCM patients receiving antiarrhythmic or β‐blocker therapy did not demonstrate a different circadian pattern compared with patients not receiving these medications.

Conclusion:

Analysis of the temporal distribution of ICD discharges in HCM patients without previous surgical myectomy or percutaneous alcohol septal ablation reveals a peak occurrence of ICD discharges during the period from 12:00 to 18:00 hours with the highest incidence between 14:00 and 16:00 hours. This is different from the well‐documented early morning peak observed in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy patients.
Risk Factors for Atrioventricular Tachycardia Degenerating to Atrial Flutter/Fibrillation in the Young with Wolff‐Parkinson‐White
Authors: HARAHSHEH ASHRAF , DU WEI , SINGH HARINDER , KARPAWICH PETER P.
Published: September 2008

Background:

Atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT) is common in patients (pts) with Wolff‐Parkinson‐White (WPW) syndrome but atrial flutter/fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular response (RVR) is rare. Although AF occurs in 18% of adult WPW pts, its incidence in children is unknown. We sought to determine risk factors for AVRT spontaneously degenerating to AF during electrophysiologic studies (EPS) in children with WPW.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of children with WPW referred for accessory pathway (AP) ablation without clinical AF. Standard electrophysiologic protocols were performed to induce AVRT. To determine if AF degeneration was associated with patient characteristics, 2‐sample t‐tests, Chi‐square, and Fisher's exact were used.

Results:

There were 53 (31 males) WPW pts studied. During EPS, AVRT degenerated to AF in 27/53 (51%). RVR was seen in 18/27 (67%) patients. The ventricular cycle length (CL) during AF was shorter with RVR (211 + 24 ms) than without (313 + 65 ms) (P = 0.01). AF occurred more commonly among patients with right anterior AP (P = 0.05). Patient gender, age, height, weight, body surface area, persistence of preexcitation on exercise testing, baseline CL, AVRT conduction, and AP number were not significant AF determinants. The AVRT CL was significantly shorter in patients with (265.2 + 41.5 ms) versus those without (308 + 59 ms) AF (P = 0.01). Preliminary data suggest that AP location may be related to patient ethnicity.

Conclusion:

AF with RVR occurred following AVRT induction during EPS in 34% of our WPW patients, typically associated with right‐sided AP locations. Time intervals for RVR to degenerate into ventricular fibrillation and lead to SCD are yet to be determined.
Conduction Barriers of Atrial Flutter: Relation to the Anatomy
Authors: TAI CHING‐TAI , CHEN SHIN‐ANN
Published: September 2008

Atrial flutter (AFL) is a common arrhythmia in clinical practice. Several experimental models such as tricuspid ring model, tricuspid regurgitation model, and atrial crush injury model have provided important information about the role of conduction barriers in the reentrant circuit. Human typical AFL uses the tricuspid annulus as the anterior barrier, and uses the crista terminalis, Eustachian ridge, and sometimes sinus venosa as the posterior boundary. Rate‐dependent conduction block was found in the crista terminalis and sinus venosa. Some barriers such as the crista terminalis and Eustachian ridge are not intact. The conduction gap in the barrier can produce another kind of arrhythmia. Understanding the barriers of AFL is necessary for successful radiofrequency ablation.
Electromagnetic Interference in an Implantable Loop Recorder Caused by a Portable Digital Media Player
Authors: THAKER JAY P. , PATEL MEHUL B. , JONGNARANGSIN KRIT , LIEPA VALDIS V. , CASTELLANI MARK , THAKUR RANJAN K.
Published: September 2008

The implantable loop recorder has been shown to be a cost‐effective tool for diagnosis of intermittent cardiovascular symptoms such as syncope and palpitations. Electromagnetic interference in these recorders may be caused by commonly encountered electronic devices such as antitheft electronic surveillance systems and magnetic resonance imaging cameras. In this report, we describe interference in two patients with implantable loop recorders from a portable digital media player.
Automatic Magnetic‐Guided Electroanatomical Mapping and Remote‐Controlled Ablation of Atypical and Typical Atrial Flutter
Authors: SCHNEIDER MICHAEL A. E. , NEUSER HANS , KOLLER MARCUS L. , SCHUMACHER BURGHARD
Published: September 2008

Two patients with inconclusive surface electrocardiogram patterns underwent nonfluoroscopy automatic mapping and remote‐controlled ablation of nonisthmus and isthmus‐dependent right atrial flutter.

Methods and Results:

A 0.08 magnetic vector force and a motor drive enable a complex steering of a new 8‐mm magnet tip electrode. The navigation system performs atrial electroanatomical mapping fully automatically. Total procedural fluoroscopy time for ablation of nonisthmus‐related atypical and isthmus‐dependent flutter was 8.5 and 3.2 minutes, respectively.

Conclusion:

Automatic electroanatomical mapping offers a promising option to effectively guide the remote‐controlled ablation of atrial reentry tachycardias and to reduce fluoroscopy time.
Focal AF‐ablation after Pulmonary Vein Isolation in a Patient with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Using Cryothermal Energy
Authors: VAN BELLE YVES , MICHELS MICHELLE , JORDAENS LUC
Published: September 2008

A 42‐year‐old man, with a history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), an electrocardiogram pattern of ventricular preexcitation typical for mutations in the PRKAG2 gene, and highly symptomatic paroxysmal drug‐resistant atrial fibrillation (AF), underwent successful circumferential isolation of his pulmonary veins using a 28‐mm double lumen cryoballoon. Because AF was still inducible with programmed stimulation, fractionated signals were targeted in the left atrium with a conventional cryocatheter. Ablation of an endocardial focus with fractionated potentials at the base of the left appendage terminated the episode and rendered AF noninducible. No recurrence of AF was observed during a 10‐month follow‐up period.
Classroom Discussions with Student‐Led Feedback: a Useful Activity to Enhance Development of Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Hayes Kirby D. , Devitt Amy A.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  Critical thinking skills (CTS) are the core learning outcome measures for higher education. Generally, CTS are not extensively developed or practiced during primary and secondary education. As such, early cultivation of CTS is essential for mastery prior to collegiate matriculation. Weekly engagement in 50 min of classroom discussion with student feedback (CDSF) was utilized to develop the CTS of students in an introductory food science course at Purdue Univ. Students' critical thinking ability was assessed longitudinally over a 16‐wk semester using the ACT‐CAAP™ (Collegiate Assessment of Academic Proficiency) critical thinking test. The ACT‐CAAP measures the students' ability to analyze, evaluate, and extend an argument described in a short passage. We hypothesized that the implementation of CDSF for 16 wk would expedite development of CTS for students enrolled in the course. The CDSF intervention significantly increased critical thinking ability for non‐native English speaking students as compared to native English speaking students. Students who were classified as sophomore status or above when compared to freshmen and students enrolled as food science majors when compared to other majors also demonstrated increased critical thinking ability. Recitation size also significantly influenced critical thinking ability where students enrolled in a relatively small recitation section had elevated critical thinking when compared to the abilities of those students enrolled in a large recitation. These observations suggest that engaging students in classroom discussions with student‐led feedback is a useful instructional technique for developing CTS. Further, the data suggest the development of critical thinking skill among food science majors can be augmented when classroom discussions with student‐led feedback are conducted in smaller sized recitations.
Health Professionals' Attitudes and Educational Needs Regarding New Food Processing Technologies
Authors: Delgado‐Gutierrez C. , Bruhn C.M.
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT:  This project evaluates the attitudes of food and health professionals to 3 new food processing technologies that have been developed to respond to consumer demands such as superior taste, longer shelf life, higher nutritional content, health benefits, and environment‐friendly processing. Educational brochures for high pressure (HP), pulsed electric field (PEF), and ohmic heating (OH) processes were developed based on the current literature and consumer information needs. An internet web survey was conducted to determine information needs of food and health professionals and to assess their satisfaction with the data provided in the educational brochures. Health professionals hold a positive attitude toward HP, OH, and PEF. No negative attitudes or discomfort were reported. More people indicated they were very comfortable with HP than any other technology, and as a consequence this technology received the highest scores of likeliness to be included in health professionals' recommendations.
Evaluation of Food Protection and Defense Outreach Education Programs
Authors: Shutske John M. , Pierquet Jennifer , Michel Laura , Rasmussen Ruth , Olson Debra
Published: September 2008

ABSTRACT: This analysis documents the outcomes and impacts from a series of food protection and defense educational programs conducted over a 3‐y period for private and public sector food system professionals. Several measures were used to determine the professions of participants; their improvements in skills and abilities that resulted from workshops; the audiences' most valued program content; practice changes resulting from educational program participation; abilities to recognize and change food system vulnerabilities; and changes in knowledge levels. Findings indicate that the knowledge level and interest within the target audience progressed over the 3‐y period from basic awareness level through more complex and higher order skills and competencies such as being able to walk through a food production, processing, distribution, or retail facility and identify specific vulnerabilities and make specific risk control recommendations. Pre‐ and posttest scores from the 3rd y of educational activities indicate that baseline awareness levels of core content on food protection and defense is now high among those most likely to attend these types of events, and that participants need to be challenged with additional higher‐level education to promote specific skills. This program series proved successful in building important relationships among food industry and regulatory partners. Analysis of the food security investigation (FSI) series will be useful in the development and delivery of new education and outreach efforts. It is hoped that the analysis and discussion will provide the motivation to further develop a set of competencies that can be used to ground educational efforts that focus on securing and defending our food system.
The Effects of Brain Natriuretic Peptide on Scar Formation in Incisional Rat Wounds
Authors: Taira Breena R. , Singer Adam J. , McClain Steve A. , Zimmerman Tom
Published: September 2008

Background:  Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a peptide that reduces scar formation in the heart by blocking transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β). Although TGF‐β is known to play a role in scar formation in the myocardium, little is known about the effects of BNP on cutaneous wound healing.

Objectives:  The objective was to determine if the administration of BNP in healing cutaneous wounds reduces the amount of scarring.

Methods:  This was a laboratory investigation using 40 wild‐strain rats. Three full‐thickness 1‐cm incisional wounds were created on each animal and randomized to intradermal BNP, saline, or no treatment. Wounds were excised at 3, 7, 14, 31, and 60 days and examined histologically for scar surface area and collagen architecture. Those wounds excised at 30 days were subjected to a measure of tensile strength and those excised at 60 days were evaluated prior to excision for cosmesis using a scar evaluation scale. The proportion of wounds healing without visually apparent scar was the main outcome. Groups were compared with Fisher’s exact and Kruskal‐Wallis tests.

Results:  Wounds treated with BNP were more likely to heal without an apparent scar when compared to those treated with saline or control (37.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.03). There were no between‐group differences in the surface area of the scars or the collagen architecture. Incisional tensile strength was also similar across treatments.

Conclusions:  Treatment of rat incisions with BNP reduced the number of visually apparent scars but did not affect the histologic appearance of the scars or the incisional tensile strength.